These days, we are all living with the Covid-19 (COVID-19) pandemic. So, if you are expecting a baby right now, it is normal to have a little fear and doubt in your mind about this virus. But don't worry, because today we are going to talk to you about it simply and clearly. Just like talking to a friend.
What effects can contracting COVID-19 have on a pregnant mother and baby?
First of all, although COVID-19 is often contracted during pregnancy, it usually presents as a mild illness, similar to a cold. Most pregnant mothers recover completely quickly. That's a real relief, isn't it?
However, it is good to understand this aspect as well. Research has found that if a pregnant woman gets COVID-19, the disease is more likely to be complicated or severe than if she is not pregnant. Sometimes, a condition like pneumonia may develop and require hospitalization. This means that we should not take this lightly.
Now let's talk about the baby. Compared to a pregnant mother who does not have COVID-19, the baby of a mother who is infected with COVID-19 may have some adverse effects. For example:
- The chance of the baby being born prematurely (preterm birth) is high.
- In some unfortunate, rare cases, a baby can die in the womb (stillbirth) . Imagine how painful that would be.
That's why we all say that if you're pregnant, protecting yourself and your unborn baby from this virus is your number one priority. The best thing to do is to follow all precautions exactly.
So, how can a pregnant mother stay safe and protected from COVID-19?
This is the most important question. Don't worry, there are some simple, yet very effective things you can do. These will help you protect yourself not only from COVID-19, but also from other respiratory infections.
- The first and most important thing is to get the COVID-19 vaccine (`(Vaccines)`) exactly and on time. Don't skip even the additional doses (`(Booster doses)`) recommended by the government. This will not only protect you, but also your baby will be greatly protected from getting seriously ill with COVID-19 within the first six months of life. Think about how valuable that is! It's like the first gift given to a baby.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water. Scrub your hands thoroughly for at least 20 seconds. If water is not available, use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol. This habit has become a part of our lives.
- Know when to wear a mask. It's especially wise to wear a mask if you're going to a crowded indoor place (e.g., on a bus, in a store) or in an area where diseases like COVID-19 are spreading. If you're unsure about this, ask your doctor.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth as much as possible. We do these things unconsciously, but with a little mindfulness, we can control this habit.
- Stay away from people who are sick as much as possible. If you see someone coughing or sneezing, it's best to stay away from them.
- Avoid crowded places and events as much as possible during this time. Try to keep some distance from people who don't live in the same household as you. This is very important for your safety and that of your baby.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched items, such as your phone, doorknobs, tables, and counters. Small things like these can make a big difference.
If I get COVID-19 while I'm pregnant, can my baby get it?
This is also a big fear and problem for many mothers. According to experts, the risk of transmission of the Covid-19 (COVID-19) virus from a pregnant mother to her baby is very low, meaning it rarely happens. However, it is not impossible. This risk may be relatively higher, especially if the mother is very ill with the disease, or if the baby is infected around the time of delivery.
That's why doctors recommend that healthy babies born to mothers infected with COVID-19 be tested for the virus, if necessary. This will help plan for the care of the baby in the hospital and after they are brought home.
After birth, the baby is more likely to catch the virus from an infected parent, especially the mother. But here's something to comfort you. Doctors generally do not advise separating an infected mother from her newborn unless the mother is too ill to care for the baby. If the mother is healthy enough to control herself, she can wear a mask, wash her hands frequently, and care for and breastfeed her baby. This will not interfere with the mother's and baby's bonding, and it will also protect the baby.
What should I do if I get sick while pregnant, meaning I develop symptoms similar to COVID-19?
The symptoms of COVID-19 can sometimes be very similar to those of other viral illnesses, such as the common cold, fever, and body aches. So, unless you get tested, you won't know for sure whether you have COVID-19 or something else.
Therefore, if you have any of these symptoms, please do not panic and immediately call your family doctor or obstetrician-gynecologist. What could these symptoms be?
- Cough
- Fever (increased body temperature)
- Difficulty breathing, feeling like your chest is constricting
- Symptoms of a cold (sore throat, stuffy nose, or runny nose)
- Feeling cold, perhaps shivering
- Body pain, muscle pain (`(Muscle pain)`)
- Headache
- Losing the taste or smell of food
- Nausea or vomiting
- Bloating, or diarrhea (`(Diarrhea)`)
In most cases, you can recover from these illnesses at home by drinking plenty of fluids (such as water, porridge, fruit juice) and getting plenty of rest. However, if you need to see a doctor, or if your symptoms are getting worse, be sure to call the hospital or doctor's office before you go and let them know. That way, they can be prepared for you when you arrive. Your doctor may prescribe antiviral medicine to treat COVID-19, or they may suggest other ways to help control your symptoms and provide you with relief.
Where can I find more detailed and accurate information about COVID-19?
If you want to know more about COVID-19 or what to be careful of during pregnancy, the best and safest way is to ask your family doctor or your obstetrician-gynecologist. They are the ones who know your health situation and can give you the most appropriate and accurate advice.
In addition, the official website of the Ministry of Health of our country, or the websites of the World Health Organization (WHO), also have a lot of reliable and updated information in this regard. But remember one thing, when searching for information on the Internet, always make sure to obtain information only from reliable and recognized official sources. Because there is a possibility of being unnecessarily scared or making wrong decisions due to incorrect information.
So, what are the most important things you need to remember from what we've talked about today?
To summarize everything we've talked about, here are the main points to keep in mind:
Don't panic, but always be careful! The most important thing you can do during pregnancy is to be aware of COVID-19 and take the necessary steps to protect yourself and your baby.
- " Be sure to get the COVID-19 vaccine at the recommended times. It is a great protection for both you and your baby."
- " Maintain personal hygiene to the fullest. Make things like washing your hands and using a face mask when necessary a daily habit."
- "If you develop any unusual symptoms (such as cough, fever, difficulty breathing), seek medical advice immediately without delay. It is important not to panic, but to act quickly and intelligently."
- "Pregnancy is a time when every mother should be happy, relaxed, and healthy. You can protect that happiness and that hope by staying safe from COVID-19. "
- "Finally, if you have any questions, concerns, or doubts about this, feel free to talk to your doctor. Don't hold anything in your heart and worry. They are there to help you."
Wishing you and your baby good health!
` Pregnancy, Covid-19, COVID-19, virus, safety, vaccine, symptoms, baby, pregnant, health
💬 අදහස් (0)
තවමත් කිසිදු අදහසක් පළ කර නොමැත. ඔබේ අදහස පළමු වරට මෙහි එක් කරන්න.
ඔබේ අදහස එක් කරන්න