The first thing they should know is that they are not more susceptible to Covid-19, nor are they part of the population at higher risk as other groups are, such as older adults and patients with chronic diseases.
However, an environment of anxiety, worry and stress can be negative for your baby’s development. Thanks to our obstetricians, we have these tips with activities at home to reduce the psychological and emotional impact of quarantine.
Questions and answers about coronavirus in pregnant women
Are pregnant women at increased risk of serious illness from Covid-19?
No. Medical specialists from around the world agree that there is no scientific evidence or previous cases of pregnant women being at serious risk from Covid-19. The clinical picture they present is very similar to the rest of the infected patients.
To date, the population groups vulnerable to the new coronavirus are the elderly and patients with chronic diseases.
How can you protect yourself from the new coronavirus during pregnancy?
Preventive measures are the same for pregnant and non-pregnant women:
- Wash your hands frequently with plenty of soap and water.
- Maintain physical distance from other people.
- Cough or sneeze into your bent elbow.
- Avoid touching your face and eyes.
It is also recommended to go to prenatal consultations only in cases of urgency and to respect the quarantine.
Can pregnant women transmit the virus to the fetus?
No. SARS-CoV-2 (the virus that causes Covid-19) is not passed from the mother to the unborn child. Scientific research shows that there are no traces of the new coronavirus in amniotic fluid or cord blood.
Should breastfeeding be stopped?
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the mother can continue to breastfeed her baby, taking the necessary precautions: such as the use of a mask and hand washing.
In cases where a mother has a serious illness, it is recommended to express the milk, taking extreme preventive measures. In addition, the baby’s feeding should be provided by a healthy caregiver. It is not necessary to pasteurize the milk before giving it to the newborn.
Are prenatal consultations suspended?
They are not suspended, but they are restricted to emergency cases. Try to keep in touch with your OB/GYN by phone for normal consultations. For the following cases, it is necessary to go immediately to the care center:
- Vaginal bleeding
- Colic
- Leakage of bleach-smelling fluid that wets underwear and legs
- Absence of baby’s movements
- Constant headache
- Dry Cough
- Feeling of shortness of breath.
Exercises for pregnant women in quarantine
Exercising is the healthiest way to prepare your body for the time of delivery. Additionally, it helps reduce stress levels and improves the mood of pregnant women.
As you know, the first trimester is the most delicate. During this period, low intensity activities, such as walking, are recommended. For this, you can choose a clear place in your house and jog without moving for approximately 20-30 minutes.
If you are in your second or third trimester, you can do dance routines and practice yoga or Pilates.
Pilates positions for pregnant women
Pilates helps strengthen the abdominal wall, promotes good posture, improves blood circulation and increases breathing capacity. The most effective positions are the following.
The Cat: Lean on your hands and knees, keeping your back straight. Have you seen cats arching their spines to stretch? This is precisely the movement that you should imitate. In this way, you stretch your muscles and relax your body.
Side by side: Lie down and bend your legs. Then move both knees to one side and breathe deeply. Return to the center and do the same to the opposite side. Repeat 20 times, it will help you stretch your back, relax your hips and work your lower back.
Lumbar stretch: Get on your knees, but with your legs open. You must stretch your arms forward and rest your hands on the floor. Use a small ball to help your shoulders.
Strengthen the pelvic floor: Lie on your back and place a ball between your thighs. Then inhale while pressing on your knees. You should repeat these contractions 10 times.
Pelvis and back: Lying down again facing up, spread your legs and relax your shoulders. You will inhale deeply and then push your pelvis up. Maintaining this posture, exhale slowly. Repeat 10 times.