COVID Positive During Pregnancy? Doctors Say Don’t Panic, Here’s What You Should Do

The second wave of COVID-19 paints an alarming picture: more and more pregnant women are testing COVID positive. Does this spell doom for the moms to be?

A recent study conducted by Oxford University revealed that women diagnosed with COVID during pregnancy were susceptible to greater pregnancy complications that could affect both them and their newborn (1).

But here’s the thing: several such studies are being held every day, focusing on small groups, which means that their findings don’t necessarily apply to all women. In fact, doctors have made it clear that there really isn’t much to panic about.

You Don’t Need To Worry

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If you speak to your gynecologist, you will find that testing positive for COVID-19 when pregnant isn’t something you need to lose sleepover. Experts believe that COVID doesn’t necessarily take a turn for the worse simply because a woman is pregnant, especially if the woman tests positive in the early stages of her pregnancy. You can easily cure mild cases of COVID at home with the right meds and diet, along with rest and exercise.

However, if you get COVID during the later stages of pregnancy, complications may arise at this stage, as your immunity is compromised. The good news is doctors say that pregnancy complications can be avoided, and COVID can be cured with the right medical care. That said, it’s best for pregnant women to avoid hospital visits as much as possible.

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What About Birth Complications?

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With more and more pregnant women testing positive for COVID in the second wave, especially those with comorbidities, the fear of complications is high. However, experts say that the chances of birth complications or premature deliveries due to COVID are low unless the mother is in a serious condition.

That’s not to say complications can’t arise. But as long as your case isn’t severe, your oxygen levels are fine, and there’s no comorbidity, you’re not at risk of complications. That said, oxygen levels can take a dip during normal delivery, which is why more doctors recommend a C-section delivery now (2).

Some Valuable Tips From Doctors

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Since COVID-19 is still a deadly disease, it’ll be wise for moms-to-be to follow certain doctor-advised rules. Here are some:

  • Follow all the safety rules of COVID-19 and avoid going out in crowded spaces
  • Take zinc and vitamin supplements, practice moderate exercise and follow a healthy diet
  • Take care of your mental well being and try to stay as positive as possible
  • Consult with doctors at home as much as you can instead of visiting a hospital
  • Do not self-medicate; consult your doctor before taking any pills
  • Don’t panic; consult with your doctor over the phone or online whenever you need
  • Isolate yourself and regularly monitor your temperature and oxygen levels and update your doctor

It’s natural to feel panicky if you get diagnosed with COVID-19 during pregnancy. But you don’t need to unless you’re in your third trimester. If your temperature doesn’t go down despite four days of medication and/or your oxygen level dips below 94, ensure that you get immediate medical attention. Also, watch out for blue nails or chest pains — if you experience any, you might need to be hospitalized.

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Remember that the chances of you passing COVID-19 to your baby are low. So don’t worry about breastfeeding your child. Continue to do so as it’ll help build their immunity (3).

Now you might think a vaccine can save you the trouble. But as of now, vaccines are not recommended for women as they carry potential risks (4), (5).

All in all, just take good care of yourself. Follow a healthy diet and lifestyle, maintain all necessary precautions and get medical attention as soon as you test positive. That should help in the effective management and cure of COVID-19 during pregnancy.

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