The impact of Covid-19 on the world has been unprecedented. For expecting mothers during these turbulent times, there could be a mixture of fear, elation, stress and sadness all wrapped up in your emotions. You probably want to stay calm for the sake of your baby’s health and your own mental health but we understand if you’re freaking out right now.
There have already been cases of some infants and toddlers contracting Covid-19 from their infected mothers. Sadly, there’s also been news of an baby under the age of one succumbing to the disease as well. Meanwhile, data on whether pregnant women have more or less severe reactions to the new coronavirus are unclear.
There are still so many unanswered questions about being pregnant during the pandemic. Dr Christopher Chong, obstetrician and gynaecologist at Gleneagles Hospital, tries to quell some of those fears by tackling our most pressing questions:
WATCH THIS VIDEO TOO
Yes in a way, but not to the extent of panicking. Everyone should be vigilant and responsible. This is especially when pregnancy is a state of slightly lowered resistance. They should not be overly worried but will just need to take general and logical precautions, and behave responsibly. There should not be fears about visiting the hospital for follow-up or delivery.
Some recent studies have shown that it will not directly affect the foetus, but there are not enough studies and experience to be totally sure. If the foetus get infected, the possibilities include premature labour, poor growth of the organs and failure to thrive after delivery. Hence a pregnant woman will still need to take the general precautions advised. If an affected baby is delivered, they will be managed the same way as any infected child or adult.
There is limited data on foetal abnormalities. Some small studies have re-assuring outcome. Data from SARs showed good outcome. At present, there seems to be no link to microcephaly of the Zika type.
Yes – A pregnant woman can have the same outcome as a non-pregnant person, and in fact, the complications can be more severe than a non-pregnant one as a pregnant woman’s resistance is lowered.
As above – take general precautions and to improve one’s immunity. Have enough sleep/rest, balanced diet, exercise, take supplements/vitamins. Avoid crowded areas and if a pregnant woman were to be in a crowded area, perhaps, to put on a mask.