Pregnancy in the Time of COVID-19

Do pregnant women face greater risk from COVID-19?

Pregnancy causes a variety of changes in the body and results in a slight immunocompromised state and as such some pregnant women may be at greater risk of severe illness, morbidity and mortality compared to the general population. However, there is not enough data at this time to support that COVID-19 will affect pregnant women more than the non-pregnant population.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), people who are pregnant should be monitored since they are considered a “vulnerable” group.

The fact remains that it is always important for pregnant women to protect themselves from illnesses. They may do the same precautions being done by the general public to help prevent contracting COVID-19. These include frequent hand hygiene, proper cough etiquette, social distancing, and avoiding people who are sick.

In the wake of the rapidly evolving COVID-19 pandemic, healthcare providers have started a new approach to prenatal care to ensure the health and safety of pregnant women and hospital staff.

At The Medical City (TMC) Institute for Women’s Health, new guidelines have been released covering prenatal check-ups, prelabor room and ultrasound services, and elective cesarean section. These guidelines ensure that continuous care is given to all pregnant women at the time of the COVID-19 pandemic. Patients are advised to contact their obstetrician-gynecologist first to confirm appointment. As always, the women are asked to call their doctors if anything feels off or if they have questions.

As the battle against COVID-19 progresses, it is very important for every pregnant woman to be more cautious to ensure that they prevent getting infected. By strictly folowing the recommendations for infection prevention, the safety of two lives is ensured.

About The Medical City Institute for Women’s Health

At TMC Institute for Women’s Health, a team of specialists from the Maternal-Fetal Medicine program provides assessment, dignosis, and management of high risk pregnancies. The team closely monitors the pregnancy and administers necessary treatment depending on the presentation of the mother and child. For inquiries, please call the Institute for Women’s Health at 8-988-1000/8-988/7000 Ext. 6338.

References: Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Medscape, The Medical City Institute for Women’s Health