PREGNANCY & COVID-19

Here are the key take-home messages.

Pregnant women are generally more susceptible to viruses that cause breathing problems (like the flu). Their immunity is lowered, their lungs are more compressed and they need more oxygen.

However, this doesn’t seem to be the case with COVID-19.

The lowered immune response of pregnancy, which is needed to stop a woman’s body responding to her baby as a health threat, may actually provide extra protection with COVID-19. This is still being investigated.

How can pregnant women protect themselves and others?

•Covering the mouth when coughing (by coughing into the crook of your elbow)

• Avoiding people who are sick• If you are unwell stay home

• Asking people who are unwell to avoid visiting 

• Washing hands often with soap and water

• Stay healthy, stay hydrated, increase veggies & fruit intake, increase vit c & zinc

• Rest, breathe, yoga & mindfulness exercises

Can the baby be infected with COVID-19 in the uterus?

The placenta is a very efficient filtering system and does an amazing job protecting babies from harm. The Zika virus was
an exception to this.

There is no evidence of increased complications, though if a woman was very unwell (with high temperature or pneumonia, for instance) then the baby may be born prematurely.

In general, a COVID-19 diagnosis should not lead to a decision for an early birth, unless ending the pregnancy is thought to be beneficial to the mother due to her overall condition.

There is not enough evidence that COVID-19 increases miscarriage and it is too early to know other longer- term impacts on the baby.

What about antenatal visits and birth?

Be aware most hospitals are restricting visitors and even support people, other than the partner.

What should I do after the birth if I have Covid 19?

The benefits of breastfeeding are so significant the WHO recommends this should begin within an hour of birth. Skin-to-skin contact should be supported immediately following birth if the baby is well.

Breastfeeding is particularly effective against infectious diseases because it transfers antibodies and other important immune factors to the baby. If the woman or the baby have an infection, the composition of breastmilk even changes to increase important components that help the baby fight infection.

• We request if you or your support partner feel unwell you do not attend your antenatal or postnatal appointment - we can do this via telehealth or phone call and reschedule.