Giving birth to a baby is an exciting – and a nerve-wracking – experience. This phase can thus be overwhelming for many “moms to be”, especially with the current pandemic. Although there is no evidence to suggest that pregnant mothers are more prone to COVID-19, with altered immunity, they need special care.
From the stress of sanitizing themselves enough to fear of going out even for an antenatal check-up, pregnant moms can go through a lot. From running errands to supporting them when they get a nervous breakdown, there are many instances where they might need help. So, how can you take care of a pregnant mother? This article details about ways of taking care of pregnant moms.
Why Do They Need Extra Care?
Physical Health
Hormonal and other changes happening in the body during pregnancy affects various systems, including the immune system.
Your immune system protects against disease-causing bacteria and viruses. During pregnancy, the working of the immune system changes to protect the mother and the baby. As the immune system has to work harder, it makes the mother more susceptible to infections that usually doesn’t cause illness.
So, even though there is no evidence that suggests increased susceptibility of mothers for COVID-19, they need care to prevent other infections.
Furthermore, the amount of fluid in the lungs increases during pregnancy, which puts pressure on your lungs and abdomen. It also makes it difficult for the body to clear this fluid, increasing the risk of bacterial infection and pneumonia.
Mental Health In addition to changes in physical health, anxiety and depression are common during pregnancy. Hormonal changes, stress, family history, and other illness may increase the risk of mental health disorders during pregnancy.
How Can You Help?
Accompanying the mother to her antenatal visit is the first step where you can help her. Fear of going outside and stress of examination result may make her nervous. Ensure that she visits the doctor and takes medications as advised. Some other things where you can help are:
Ensuring everyone in the family follow COVID-19 preventive measures
Ensuring that she consumes nutritious food
Avoiding the consumption of raw meat and unpasteurized dairy products
Helping her with errands
Talking to her often to make sure she is fine
Take her to the doctor immediately if she has a fever or flu-like symptoms.
Some Frequently Asked Questions
1. Should Pregnant mothers be tested for COVID-19?
It depends on the area where they stay. The World Health Organization recommends prioritizing testing of those mothers who have symptoms of COVID-19.
2. Can a pregnant mother pass COVID-19 infection to the newborn baby?
There is no evidence till date that the mother can transmit the virus to the baby. The virus is not isolated from amniotic fluid or breast milk.
3. What care should be taken during pregnancy and childbirth?
A positive and safe childbirth experience includes:
Being treated with dignity and respect
Having a companion of choice during delivery
Adequate support and communication by the maternity staff
Providing adequate pain relief strategies
Final Thoughts
A mother needs care and support during pregnancy – especially with the rise in COVID-19 pandemic. Help her in all possible means and make sure that she is healthy. Pregnancy is an important phase in the life of all mother. Help them to make this journey a pleasant and memorable one.
This Mother’s Day make sure that she is happy!
Disclaimer: Indian Health Bureau does not claim any responsibility for the information contained in this article. The information may not hold good for everyone. The post is for general awareness only and should not be construed as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Please consult your doctor to know what is good for you.
Comments