The COVID-19 Pandemic has changed the world completely. The typical routine has changed, and we are getting ourselves used to the new one. One such changed experience is pregnancy.
Pregnancies in the pandemic aren’t the same anymore. If you are pregnant, your mind must be going through tons of questions that you desperately want to ask your doctor. However, you must not be so sure which one to ask and which you should avoid?
So, we have compiled an article of eight questions that you can ask your doctor when you see him for your next routine check-up or telehealth appointment.
Q.1 If I get infected, does COVID-19 passes on to my baby too?
Being a parent isn’t easy. It’s stressful from the moment you know you are going to be a parent. You must be worrying and thinking to yourself, what If the virus passed down to your baby?
Stop Worrying. The reports suggest that the chances are pretty low that one can pass the virus to their baby. Instead, be focused on how to avoid getting sick in this period.
Q.2 Am I too stressed, or is that normal?
Pregnancy is just like a job promotion. When you get it, you become too happy about it. Later we realise it comes with new responsibilities and even bigger tensions. Since the pandemic is all over the world, it is natural for a parent to be worried.
If you feel your depression and stress levels are high, talk to your OB-GYN about it. Try activities that lower down your stress levels, stay away from any areas that can affect the health of your baby.
Q.3 What if I test positive? Will they separate me from my baby?
That is a hospital dependent situation. You should confirm with your doctor whether this is a possibility in their hospital or not. Don’t be too concerned since many hospitals keep the baby in an incubator but still encourages breastfeeding. (Where the mother is positive)
Q.4 Is it okay to work during my pregnancy?
No matter what the conditions are – everyone needs to work. Pregnancy gets a woman extremely worried. Distracting the mind from the same by working can be a good option. So, it’s okay for you to work for your kid and yourself. However, we recommend you take extreme care and precaution for yourself.
If possible, work in an environment with minimal risk while practising social distancing. Also, make sure you wear a mask at all possible times.
Q.5 Can COVID-19 affect my baby in any way?
That is a great question. Let us tell you that there is not enough evidence that the virus affects the baby in any way. People who were infected and yet delivered didn’t face any concerns. So, we expect this should have made you feel a little bit relieved now.
Q.6 Are there going to be telehealth appointments mostly?
Telehealth Appointments have allowed Doctors to address medical issues efficiently. Reaching out to your doctor has become extremely easy. It’s great for those who are at a high risk of getting COVID-19. Any health issue can be monitored and reported in seconds, with ease rather than travelling for hours to see the doctor.
Q.7 What do I do to protect myself from COVID-19?
You don’t have to do anything extra during this period. Limit public exposure, stay at home, wash hands, wear a mask, practise social distancing, and that’s all. You can continue to do whatever you used to. Lowering down stress a bit with your partner can come in healthy.
Q.8 Is it better to give birth at home or an alternate location rather than a hospital?
Home Births have boomed up in this period for sure. More and more women are considering giving birth at home to reduce the chance of covid. However, you should consult your OB-GYN for the same. If you are considering a home birth through a midwife, make sure you check her training certificates and how long she has been in practice.
Also, keep a backup ready as you might have to visit a hospital while the delivery takes place. Analyse everything and consider the one that suits you the best.
Pregnancy adds up a lot of responsibility to one’s life. With pandemic at our doorstep, we all need to take special care and precautions. In such a situation, our mind must be going through tons of questions, all at the same time. These were our handpicked, top eight questions that you need to ask your doctor on your next telehealth appointment. Apart from the guidance from your doctor, practice the basic covid guidelines, and limit yourself from any public exposure. Spend quality time with your partner and explore good aspects of life to get through this phase gently and healthily.
