If you're pregnant during the COVID-19 pandemic, it's natural to have questions and concerns about how the virus might affect you and your baby. While doctors and scientists are still learning about the impact of COVID-19 on pregnancy, here's what we know so far.
Pregnant women are at a higher risk of severe illness from COVID-19 compared to non-pregnant individuals. This increased risk extends up to 42 days after giving birth. Severe illness may require treatment in an intensive care unit, the use of a ventilator, or could even lead to death. Additionally, pregnant women with COVID-19 are at a higher risk of delivering their baby before 37 weeks and may face other pregnancy complications.
Factors that can further increase the risk of severe illness include:
Certain health conditions, such as obesity or gestational diabetes
Advanced maternal age
Social, economic, and health inequalities
The most effective way to protect yourself and your baby from COVID-19 is by getting vaccinated. Experts agree that the benefits of the COVID-19 vaccine outweigh any known or potential risks during pregnancy. The vaccine is recommended for pregnant women, those who are breastfeeding, trying to get pregnant, or may become pregnant in the future. There is currently no evidence suggesting that the COVID-19 vaccine causes fertility issues in women or men.
If you experience symptoms of COVID-19 or come into contact with someone who has the virus, contact your doctor immediately. They will likely advise you to monitor for symptoms such as fever or cough and provide guidance on where to go for testing if needed.
There is no evidence that the COVID-19 virus itself leads to birth defects, miscarriage, or other problems. However, a fever in early pregnancy, whether caused by COVID-19 or another illness, can increase the risk of birth defects. Severe lung illnesses late in pregnancy may also increase the likelihood of premature delivery.
While some babies born to women with COVID-19 have been born preterm, it is unclear whether the virus is directly responsible. Newborns can test positive for COVID-19, but this does not necessarily mean they contracted the virus in the womb. The most common transmission method is through respiratory droplets from a sick person, so infected babies likely acquired the virus after birth from their mother or a caregiver.
Evidence suggests that COVID-19 is not transmitted through breast milk. However, you can still pass the virus to your baby through coughing or sneezing while nursing. The safest option may be to pump and have someone who is not infected feed your baby. If you prefer to nurse your baby yourself, wash your hands before breastfeeding and consider wearing a face mask. Take the same precautions while bottle-feeding your baby.
During the pandemic, your prenatal care may be adjusted to minimize risk. Your medical team may recommend fewer in-person visits or offer checkups by phone or online. They may also advise you to monitor your baby's movements and provide you with a blood pressure cuff for at-home use.
If you have COVID-19, there is no evidence against delivering vaginally. However, your delivery experience may differ from what you expected. Experts suggest leaving the vernix, a protective waxy coating on newborns' skin, on for 24 hours after birth to help protect against infection. Babies born to women with COVID-19 may be isolated and monitored for symptoms. Many hospitals are also limiting the number of visitors allowed during delivery.
For more information on pregnancy and COVID-19, consult these reputable sources:
ACOG: Coronavirus (COVID-19), Pregnancy, and Breastfeeding: A Message for Patients
WHO: Q&A on COVID-19, pregnancy, childbirth and breastfeeding
Remember, if you have any concerns or questions about your pregnancy during the COVID-19 pandemic, don't hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider for guidance and support.
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