In light of the ongoing concerns surrounding the coronavirus, pregnant and breastfeeding individuals must prioritize their health and that of their newborns. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has released crucial recommendations for those navigating this challenging time.
Pregnancy inherently alters a person’s immune and physiological responses, which may heighten susceptibility to viral respiratory infections, including COVID-19. However, it’s essential to note that being pregnant does not necessarily increase the risk of severe illness from the virus. The World Health Organization (WHO) found that among 147 pregnant women studied, only eight percent faced severe illness, and just one percent required critical hospitalization.
To mitigate the risk of contracting COVID-19, pregnant and breastfeeding individuals should adhere to standard prevention measures: frequent handwashing and avoiding contact with anyone who shows signs of illness. The CDC reassures that, as of now, the virus is not spreading widely in U.S. communities, which keeps the immediate risk to the general public low.
The transmission of COVID-19 during delivery remains uncertain. However, a limited review of cases involving infants born to mothers with the virus indicated that none tested positive for COVID-19, and no traces of the virus were found in amniotic fluid or breastmilk. For those nursing, the CDC urges mothers to continue breastfeeding if they become ill, due to the protective antibodies present in breastmilk. Precautions should include washing hands before handling the baby and wearing a mask while breastfeeding, if feasible. When pumping, ensure equipment is clean and consider having a healthy individual feed expressed milk to the baby.
Reports suggest that COVID-19 has been particularly mild in children. A report from the WHO-China Joint Mission indicates that only 2.4 percent of confirmed COVID-19 cases in China involved children, with a mere 2.5 percent exhibiting severe symptoms, and no fatalities among young children.
If you’re expecting or breastfeeding, it’s vital to collaborate with your healthcare provider to tailor a plan that suits your unique situation in light of possible coronavirus exposure. For more insights, check out this post on home insemination, and for additional authoritative information, visit fertility event. Furthermore, CCRM IVF’s blog serves as an excellent resource for navigating pregnancy and home insemination challenges.
In summary, with proper precautions and guidance from healthcare professionals, pregnant and breastfeeding individuals can safely navigate the uncertainties brought by COVID-19.