Maintain immunity, hygiene to avoid pregnancy complications

Expectant mothers at any stage of pregnancy must be tested for COVID, as they are at risk of contracting the virus than a regular person, said Dr Meera Raghavan, senior consultant and urogynecologist, Apollo Hospitals. “Pregnant women usually have a different kind of immunity, which can be lower than usual. Those with heart disease, hypertension or genital valve-related issues pose a major risk,” she said.

There are risks of passing the disease to their children, but chances are very low, says Dr Mathangi Rajagopalan, senior consultant, gynaecology and obstetrics, Rainbow Children’s Hospital. “Several studies have shown that vertical transmission of the disease from pregnant mother to child is not likely, nor does it increase miscarriage rates, and thus, women need not worry about that. However, if they do not practice proper respiratory health, there is a chance that the baby might contract the disease,” added Dr Rajagopalan.

Maintaining personal hygiene at this time is crucial, she added. “Washing hands regularly is a must. Pregnant women must also avoid going outside to purchase groceries to avoid contraction,” she said.

Dr Raghavan also recommended consuming food rich in vitamin D and zinc to boost immunity. Mixing turmeric with drinking water will also boost immunity.

However, experts reported that many women still worry about contracting the virus, which can cause anxiety in patients. They recommend lifestyle changes such as regular meditation and breathing exercises, maintaining proper sleep cycles and exercise regimens in adherence to shutdown rules and individual requirements to combat this.

Breastfeeding will not spread the disease, say experts, even if mothers test positive. “If mothers who test positive are hesitant and do not want to take any chances at all for transmission, we can give the baby to a caretaker for the 14-day quarantine period, after which she can care for the baby,” said Dr Rajagopalan.

Additionally, Dr Raghavan stresses that expectant mothers must alert health officials immediately if they experience any pain or bleeding. “Don’t miss your vaccinations. Don’t miss your 12-week, 20-week, 32-week and 36-week scans. These four scans are very important and must be conducted in-person, while the rest can be conducted online,” she said.

Finally, families must also chip in to help relieve expectant mothers of household burdens and mental stress. Experts call for reduced household duties and upholding of emotional boundaries to help pregnant women during this time.