Pregnancy And Covid-19

Every worried and expectant mom’s questions answered

- Mikaela G. Martinez

As we face the challenge of COVID-19 it is important to know its effect and impact on health, including pregnancy. There is limited information on COVID-19 in pregnancy but experts are working hard to find out more about how this disease affects mothers and their unborn babies. Here are some common questions and what we know so far.

Is it easier for pregnant women to become ill with COVID-19?

The effects of hormones, as well as the physical changes brought about by the growing fetus, can affect the respiratory tract of pregnant women. Such changes can make pregnant women feel shortness of breath and difficulty of breathing as the due date draws near. These maternal adaptations to pregnancy can increase the risk of acquiring infections. At present, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states that there is still insufficient data to determine if pregnant women are more susceptible to COVID-19 infection and if they are at increased risk for adverse health outcomes as compared to non-pregnant women. Nevertheless, pregnant women are encouraged to always protect themselves from infection, since pregnancy constitutes a state of relative immunosuppression. Other viral respiratory infections, such as influenza, are present with a more severe course during pregnancy.

How can I avoid COVID-19 infection?

Similar to the general population, pregnant women can practice the following preventive measures to avoid COVID-19 infection:

1. Wash hands with soap and clean water or with 70 percent alcohol-based hand sanitizers.

2. Practice proper cough etiquette by covering mouth and nose while coughing and sneezing. Use tissue when covering your mouth, then dispose of it properly. You may also use the corner of your elbow to cover your cough.

3. Avoid touching your face, particularly the eyes, nose, and mouth.