Transcript
For expecting parents the birth of the child is a life-changing event.
There are usual fears and anxieties of course.
But during a global pandemic, those fears can be multiplied tenfold.
So experts break down what a new mother can expect during these unexpected times.
First things first, some good news.
When it comes to coronavirus, there is no current evidence that pregnant women are at a higher risk of catching the disease.
However a woman’s immune system is lower during pregnancy making them more susceptible to illness in general.
So continue to avoid anyone who is sick.
Protect yourself by coughing or sneezing into your elbow.
Wash your hands.
When it comes time to deliver, you may only be allowed one visitor with you at the hospital.
That’s because Covid-19 is extremely contagious and hospitals’ resources across the country are spread thin.
Check with your hospital to see if there any changes to their policies.
And what if the mother has been diagnosed Covid-19?
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention doesn’t have enough data to determine if a mother can pass the virus to her baby while in utero or during birth.
In either case, separating the baby and mother may be recommended to protect the infant’s weak immune system.
There is no current evidence showing the virus is found in breast milk.
But if the mother has tested positive for coronavirus, the decision on whether or not to breast-feed should also be made with her healthcare providers.
As for food in general, whether you are pregnant or not, the US FDA wants the public to know there is no evidence of Covid-19 spreading through food or food packaging.
And there is also no widespread food shortage in the US due to the coronavirus pandemic.
But agency leaders say there is unprecedented demand for some items and manufacturers and retailers are working to replenish empty store shelves.
So they are urging people to buy just a week or two worth of groceries at a time.
Posted – 4.3.20