If you’re pregnant and have questions about how the Covid-19 pandemic may affect your pregnancy, you’re not alone. Many expectant mothers are wondering about the potential risks of contracting the virus during Covid Pregnancies and what symptoms to look out for.
In this blog post, we’ll explore everything you need to know about Covid pregnancies, from the symptoms to the risks and delivery. We’ll also provide some tips on how to stay healthy during this time. So if you’re pregnant and worried about Covid-19, read on for more information.
What are the symptoms of Covid during pregnancy?
There are a few different symptoms that have been reported by pregnant women who have contracted Covid. These include fever, severe body aches, fatigue, and shortness of breath. A small percentage of women have also reported gastrointestinal issues like nausea and diarrhea. However,
it is important to note that many pregnant women who have contracted Covid have shown no symptoms at all.
As Covid is a respiratory illness, pregnant women are at an increased risk of developing more severe symptoms if they contract the virus. This is due to the fact that pregnancy can put a strain on a woman’s respiratory system. Additionally, pregnant women who have underlying health conditions like diabetes or hypertension are also more likely to experience more severe symptoms if they contract Covid.
If you are pregnant and think you may have contracted Covid, it is important to seek medical attention right away as you may need to be hospitalized for treatment. In some cases, pregnant women who have contracted Covid have needed to be placed on ventilators in order to help them breathe.
Thankfully, most women who contract the virus during pregnancy will ultimately recover without any long-term effects on their health or their baby’s health.
What are the risks of Covid during pregnancy?
There are a few risks that have been associated with Covid during pregnancy. These include an increased risk for preterm labor and delivery, as well as low birth weight babies. Additionally, there is a higher chance for placental abruption (when the placenta tears away from the uterine wall) and PPROM (preterm premature rupture of membranes).
While the majority of pregnant women who contract Covid will have mild symptoms, a small percentage will develop a severe illness which can lead to hospitalization or even death. For this reason, it is important for pregnant women to consult with their healthcare provider if they develop any symptoms of Covid-19.
How is delivery different for Covid positive mothers?
Covid-19 has changed the way we think about pregnancy and delivery. For mothers who are Covid positive, there are different risks and considerations to take into account.
Delivery for Covid positive mothers is typically done via cesarean section. This is because it is thought to be the safest option for both mother and child. Recovery from a cesarean section can be more difficult than a vaginal birth, so it is important to discuss all of your options with your care team.
It is also important to note that you may have to deliver in a hospital that is different from your usual facility. This is because many hospitals are separating their facilities based on Covid status. This means that you may be away from home and your support system during this already stressful time.
Be sure to communicate your needs and feelings with your care team so they can best support you.
How can I protect myself and my baby if I am pregnant during the pandemic?
If you are pregnant, it is important to protect yourself and your baby from the coronavirus. There are a few things you can do to reduce your risk of exposure:
- Get vaccinated: The CDC recommends that all pregnant women get the flu vaccine and the Tdap vaccine (which protects against diphtheria, pertussis, and tetanus). These vaccines will help you stay healthy and avoid getting sick during pregnancy.
- Avoid contact with people who are sick: If possible, avoid contact with people who are sick or have symptoms of COVID-19. This includes staying away from large gatherings of people.
- Practice social distancing: When you are around other people, practice social distancing by keeping at least six feet away from them. This will help reduce your exposure to respiratory droplets that may contain the virus.
- Wash your hands often: Wash your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available. This will help remove any respiratory viruses that you may have come into contact with.
- Clean and disinfect surfaces in your home: Regularly clean and disinfect surfaces in your home, especially those that are commonly touched (such as door handles, light switches, countertops, etc.). This will help reduce the spread of the virus if someone in your household is infected.
What should I do if I think I have Covid while pregnant?
If you think you have Covid while pregnant, the first thing you should do is contact your healthcare provider. They will be able to give you specific instructions on what to do next.
It is important to remember that symptoms of Covid can be similar to other respiratory illnesses, so it is important to get a proper diagnosis from your healthcare provider. If you do have Covid, there are some things you can do to help manage your symptoms and protect yourself and your baby.
Stay home as much as possible and avoid contact with other people. This will help prevent the spread of the virus.
Drink plenty of fluids and rest as much as possible. This will help your body fight the virus and recover more quickly.
Monitor your symptoms closely and seek medical help if they worsen or if you develop new symptoms. This is especially important for pregnant women because Covid can lead to complications such as pneumonia, which can be dangerous for both mother and baby.
Read more: Doctors Research Effects of Covid-19 on Children
Conclusion
Pregnancy during the Covid-19 pandemic can be a scary and uncertain time. However, by understanding the symptoms, risks, and delivery options available, you can help make the experience as safe and positive as possible. Be sure to consult with your healthcare provider throughout your pregnancy to ensure that you are getting the best care possible.
