Keeping Safe from COVID19: 5 Precautions for New Mothers and Pregnant Women

Being pregnant and giving birth can take its toll on your mind and body. While many women flourish during their pregnancy, others aren’t as lucky, and with the COVID-19 pandemic currently sweeping the globe, it’s vital that pregnant women and new mothers do everything they can to ensure they and their baby are safe.

Understandably, the unsettling times we’re in can cause panic and distress, so here are 5 precautionary measures you should take during the COVID-19 pandemic if you’re pregnant or have recently given birth.

Take Care of Yourself

Being pregnant and giving birth during the coronavirus pandemic may fill you with stress and anxiety. With many of us having to change the way we live our lives, it’s important that you don’t let the fear and worries of the pandemic impact your baby. Getting a good night’s sleep, watching what you eat, and practising relaxation are good strategies to keep good care of you and your baby.

Stay at Home

If you’re able to, it’s advised to stay at home as much as you can during your pregnancy and the immediate aftermath. While restrictions are beginning to lift in regard to returning to work and meeting outsiders, pregnant women and new mothers are at a moderate risk of contracting the coronavirus. If you’re about to give birth, it’s important that you prepare for delivery and sort arrangements to reach hospital. Whatever you may think, it’s far safer to deliver in a hospital, regardless of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Be Alert

Pregnant women need to be on high alert and look for warning signs during the coronavirus pandemic. You should continue to visit your midwife and doctor who can perform regular checkups and monitor your baby. If you experience any pain in your abdomen or have a watery discharge, make sure that you act immediately. Even though hospitals are busier because of COVID-19 patients, your health should never be neglected. If you have any concerns, there are rapid COVID-19 tests available which can test you for the virus.

Wash Your Hands Frequently

If you’re a new mother and returning to work, or you need to perform daily errands, make sure that you wash your hands regularly with soap and water or hand sanitizer. Frequently touched surfaces like door handles harbor bacteria and germs, so make sure that you get into the habit of carrying a small bottle of hand sanitizer around with you.

Wear a Face Mask

When you’re out and about or even breastfeeding your baby, it’s advised to wear a face mask. Make sure that you don’t cover your baby’s face with a mask, and ensure you wash your hands thoroughly before touching him or her. Face coverings may reduce the spread of infection in your community and help keep you and your baby safe.

Your pregnancy and birth should be as stress free as possible. While we’re currently in the midst of the coronavirus pandemic, you should still visit your doctor and midwife if you have any problems. All the tips above will reduce the risk of you contracting the coronavirus and help to keep you and your baby protected.