COVID-1 9, the disease caused by a new coronavirus, has rapidly spread globally. The World health organisation recently labeled COVID-1 9 a pandemic. Many of my pregnant cases have paid particular attention, both for themselves and their babies, about the impact of COVID-1 9 on their health. To answer often-asked questions about pregnancy and the new coronavirus, I’ve teamed up with my husband, an infectious disease specialist and internist. Together, we reviewed the extremely limited data available to provide evidence-based responses below.

Pregnancy and the new coronavirus

As you probably know, the virus spreads through respiratory droplets sent into the air when a person who has COVID-1 9 coughings or sneezings. It may also spread when someone touches a surface infected by a person who has the virus.

What can I do to protect myself against catching the new coronavirus?

The most important step is to practice excellent hand hygiene by regularly washing entrusts with soap and water for 20 seconds. Avoid touching your eyes, lip, and snout. You was necessary to eschewed sizable concludes. Social distancing is important to limit the spread of the virus. If you have a mild cough or freezing, stay at home and restraint revelations to other beings. Sneeze and cough into a tissue that you discard immediately, or into your shoulder, to avoid forming others sick. Hydration and adequate rest too are important in sustain the health of your immune system.

As a pregnant lady, what is my risk of becoming very ill from COVID-1 9?

Given that this is a novel virus, little is known about its impact on pregnant women. At this level, professionals think that pregnant women are just as likely, or maybe most likely, than the general public to develop manifestations if infected with the brand-new coronavirus. Current information indicates manifestations are likely to be mild to moderate, as is true for women( and men) in this age wander who are not pregnant.

If I am pregnant and have COVID-1 9, does this increase the risk of failure or other complications?

There does not appear to be any increased risk of mishap or other complications such as fetal malformations for pregnant women who are infected with COVID-1 9, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention( CDC ). Based on data from other coronaviruses, such as SARS and MERS, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists notes that pregnant women who get COVID-1 9 may have a higher risk for some complications, such as preterm birth, but the data are extremely limited and the infection were not able to be the direct motive of preterm birth.

If I get sick from the brand-new coronavirus, what is the risk of legislating the virus onto my fetus or newborn?

A study of nine pregnant women who were infected with COVID-1 9 and had manifestations showed that none of their babies were affected by the virus. The virus was not present in amniotic fluid, the babies’ throats, or in breast milk. The gamble of surpassing the infection to the fetus appears to be very low, and there is no evidence of any fetal malformations or consequences due to maternal illnes with COVID-1 9.

I is positive for COVID-1 9. Can I breastfeed my child?

Currently, there is no evidence of the virus in breast milk. Given that the virus is spread through respiratory droplets, mothers should dry their hands and consider wearing a face mask to minimize infants’ exposure to the virus.

Can I wander for my baby-moon?

We recommend avoiding all traveling at this time, given the concerns that the virus could be widespread, and the uncertainty for passage controls( learn CDC travel advisories ).

Should I reschedule my baby shower because of the new coronavirus?

While a child shower is a joyous and important occasion, public health organizations such as the CDC recommend social distancing to restraint the dissemination of the virus. Specially in large congregates, the risk of possible exposure and illnes is quite high. We recommend restraint social gatherings at this time.

What should I do if I have a fever or cough, have traveled from a country in which the virus is widespread, or have been in contact with a person confirmed to have COVID-1 9?

Every hospital has specific rules for the best way to handle these situations. The first step is to call your doctor’s office to inform them of your indications, travelling, or contact with someone who has a approved case of COVID-1 9. Do not simply go to your doctor’s office. It is very important to limit the spread of the virus. Particularly “if youre having” evidences, it is best to call your doctor firstly to determine whether you need testing and/ or to come in for evaluation.

I was concerned that doctors, even obstetricians, is likely to be diverted in an emergency setting and is not always possible when I am delivering. Will that be the case?

At this time, there is no plan for any other doctors to be drew from their regular duties to staff other parts of the hospital. Obstetrics is an essential component of health, and it is unlikely that an ob/ gyn will not be present at the time of your baby’s birth. Ask your health care team about this.

For more information about the new coronavirus and COVID-1 9, delight view Harvard Health Publishing’s Coronavirus Resource Center.

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