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Management of COVID-19 during pregnancy
(Last Updated On: April 03, 2021)
The COVID-19 pandemic has changed our lives as we knew it. While this is a scary time for all of us, expecting mothers are especially scared for the health of their babies
As the disease causes severe respiratory distress, along with symptoms like fever, cough and shortness of breath – mothers should especially look for these signs and get in touch with their doctors at the earliest.
It has been long known that, while pregnant women are not necessarily more susceptible to viral illness, changes to their immune system during pregnancy may be associated with more severe symptoms. SARS-CoV and MERS-CoV were both known to be responsible for severe complications during pregnancy. However, there is no current evidence that pregnant women are more susceptible to COVID-19 infection.
What steps should pregnant women take if they have been exposed to COVID-19?
If you are pregnant, notice symptoms like fever, sustained cough, get in touch with your medical team at the earliest. Based on your symptoms, the doctor will suggest a safe course of action for you and decide if you need to visit the hospital to get tested. If you are diagnosed with the virus, you will be kept and treated in isolation to prevent others from contracting the disease.
What effect will COVID-19 have on my baby if I am diagnosed with the infection?
Till date there is no evidence that suggests an increased risk of miscarriage in women suffering from COVID-19. It is also unlikely for the baby to develop abnormalities due to the virus. However, it has been reported that a few women in China gave birth prematurely after getting the virus, but it is still unclear if this was a result of the disease. Currently, there is no data suggesting an increased risk of miscarriage or early pregnancy loss in relation to COVID-19.
It is unknown whether new-borns with COVID-19 are at increased risk for severe complications. Transmission after birth via contact with infectious respiratory secretions is a concern. Facilities should consider temporarily separating (e.g., separate rooms) the mother who has confirmed COVID-19 or is a PUI, from her baby until the mother’s transmission-based precautions are discontinued.
If I am suffering from the disease, how will it affect my birthing plan?
Till date, there is no evidence that suggests any changes are required in your birth plan and women who plan to give birth vaginally can continue to do so.
However, if you start to suffer from respiratory distress due to the disease and your overall health starts to deteriorate, a caesarean birth may be recommended by your doctor. There is also no evidence that restricts women from opting for an epidural or a spinal block if they are suspected or confirmed patients of COVID-19. Feel free to discuss all your options with your healthcare team.
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