At a time when the world is still battling the Coronavirus, the concerns that it raises for pregnant women, cannot be ignored. While pregnancy should be a time of joyous anticipation for women, it is important to know whether you and your baby are safe.
To put your mind at ease about Coronavirus, it is important to know the following:
What Is Coronavirus?
Coronavirus refers to a family of viruses that have been known to cause illness in humans ranging from the common cold to more severe diseases. The current strain that has become a health pandemic has been named ‘COVID-19’ and is a new strain that had not been previously identified in humans.
COVID-19 is an infectious respiratory disease spread through infected air droplets and contact with persons or surfaces containing the virus. Since the virus can linger in the air or stay on surfaces for minutes to hours, it has affected millions worldwide. This has resulted in governments and health bodies working around the clock to find a solution to resolve this health crisis.
Am I At a Higher Risk Of Being Infected As a Pregnant Woman?
According to the CDC and WHO, it has not yet been proven that the virus affects pregnant women more severely, unlike other viruses such as SARS.
However, pregnancy does increase the risk for severe illnesses as women who are pregnant are more likely to develop respiratory complications that demand intensive care than women who aren’t pregnant.
As such, a pregnant woman needs to be extra cautious to avoid infection, given the potential adverse outcomes.
What Should You Do To Protect Yourself and Your Baby?
First, take your health and the health of your baby very seriously. This means partnering with the best Ocala OBGYN, to ensure world-class care. Dr. Marquette and his staff will not only answer all your questions to put your mind to ease, but provide you with excellent prenatal care.
You should also adapt the general guidelines below that are recommended by health experts. These include:
- Avoid being in crowded places and stay at home whenever possible.
- Always wear your mask, wash or sanitize your hands, and keep social distance (at least 6 feet) if you must go out. However, try and avoid unnecessary movements to limit the risks of contracting the virus.
- Limit contacts with people, even friends and family who might want to visit you at home.
- Avoid touching your face, nose, or mouth.
- Even when at home, try and be active by doing simple exercises and eat healthy meals as recommended by your doctor.
- Stay in touch with your healthcare provider and adhere to all appointments.
Discover Tips For Choosing Your Ocala OBGYN.
Bottom-line
As scientists and health experts are learning more about Coronavirus and working toward solutions, you need to be cautious as a pregnant woman. Talking to your obstetrician and adhering to the preventative measures provided will help you have a safe and successful pregnancy.