The COVID-19 is gaining traction throughout the globe once more. As the weather changes and the holidays come around again, it’s only natural to be concerned about your health at this time. This stress, however, is only compounded if you’re currently pregnant.
Experts don’t know if pregnant people are more likely to catch coronavirus than other people. However, they do believe that these pregnant individuals are more likely to suffer from serious complications in the event that they do catch the virus.
According to the CDC, pregnant people might even be at a risk for suffering from preterm births, along with the serious respiratory symptoms associated with the illness. Unfortunately, everyone is at risk of catching the virus at this time, especially as numbers across the globe continue to rise.
Luckily, there are a few ways that you can stay safer while pregnant in the midst of a global pandemic. Rely on these tips to protect your health — and your baby’s health — as you navigate a COVID-19 world.
Stay home if you can
Social distancing is a top priority among pregnant individuals, but many may feel like going to the store to pick up groceries is safe. If you can, stay home. Many people going to the store might have COVID-19 and not even realize it. Luckily, there are a growing number of food delivery apps and check-out options that limit the interactions you have with other people. Picking up food through curbside-pickup options is much better than wandering across the various aisles at your favorite store.
If you have to go to the store, as many people do, the best thing you can do is social distance and wear a mask. Use hand sanitizer as often as you can and try to shop during the off-hours where there are fewer people in the store. Staying home isn’t always an option, but being safe when you do go outside is essential.
Get exercise safely
Getting exercise is essential when you’re pregnant, but it’s not recommended that you workout with other people yet. Instead of holing up in a crowded gym, your best bet is to go for long walks outdoors where there are few people around. Just try to be careful when you venture onto uneven surfaces. Even a minor ankle sprain can take up to 10 days to heal. If you happen to fall forward when you’re pregnant, you might be putting the baby’s life at risk. As such, you should always bring a family member or someone else in your quarantine circle to exercise with you.
Do some research
When you’re pregnant, your mind might jump to countless stressful questions about your pregnancy. The best thing you can do is stay up-to-date with coronavirus information. According to new studies, there have only been a few isolated instances where COVID-19 has been passed from mother to baby during pregnancy. In the vast majority of cases, COVID-19 has not been passed in this manner.
Studies have also shown that it’s unlikely that you’ll pass COVID-19 through your breastmilk or amniotic fluid. However, the risk for passing on the virus goes up after the baby is born and respiratory droplets can find their way to the infant. If you’re worried about passing COVID-19 to your infant, it’s recommended that parents wear masks and wash their hands before handling the child. It’s even better if you can get a healthy caregiver to take on the bulk of the responsibility until the parents recover from the illness.
If you want more information, don’t hesitate to reach out to your primary care physician. As many as 77% of people research online reviews when they’re picking out a new healthcare provider. Find a doctor in your area, along with a quality OB/Gyn, to quell your fears and better maintain your health as a pregnant person.
Take care of your mental health, too
Being pregnant during a global pandemic can cause a lot of stress in the pregnant person. If you’re not taking care of your mental health, this strain can weaken your body and your immune system.
As such, it’s essential to monitor your mental health. Invest in a therapist if you can, and don’t hesitate to take breaks from work, family members, and overwhelming responsibilities as needed. You should also find ways to work happy moments in throughout your day. During a global pandemic, it can be hard to give yourself something to look forward to. Even a small gift of flowers has been shown to make 86% of people feel special. Treat yourself, even if it’s something small.
The stress of being pregnant during COVID-19 can seem overwhelming. When you’re caught up in the anxiety of it all, rely on these tips to stay safe, healthy, and optimistic.
Author: Kelsey R.
Metro Detroit Mommy writer Kelsey.
Metro Detroit Mommy writer Kelsey.
