Navigating the news about COVID-19 can be overwhelming for expectant or new mothers. Pregnant women generally face a heightened vulnerability to illnesses, and any health concerns can impact their developing babies. For breastfeeding moms, the anxiety about whether the virus could be transmitted through breast milk is particularly concerning. With a newborn at home, the fear of a new virus circulating in the community can be daunting, especially given that many infections can affect infants more severely than older children. When I was a new mom, any virus outbreak made me extremely anxious.
One of the most unsettling aspects of COVID-19 is that it is a novel virus. While it belongs to the same family as known coronaviruses like SARS and MERS, there is still much to learn about it. Additionally, distinguishing between credible information and misinformation can be quite challenging. To alleviate these concerns, we consulted with several medical professionals—two family physicians and a pediatrician—to get accurate insights on COVID-19 and its implications for pregnant and postpartum women.
What Should Expecting Mothers Know About COVID-19?
Dr. Mia Thompson, a family physician from Chicago, shared that current data regarding COVID-19 and pregnancy is still limited, but there are some encouraging findings. “Pregnant women don’t appear to be at a higher risk for severe illness compared to the general population,” she noted. A recent report from health organizations analyzed cases of pregnant women, revealing that only a small percentage experienced severe symptoms.
Importantly, there has been no evidence of the virus being transmitted from mothers to their babies during pregnancy. However, Dr. Thompson pointed out that most studies have focused on women in later stages of pregnancy, leaving early pregnancy effects largely unknown.
Understanding Health Risks for Pregnant Women with COVID-19
Dr. Sam Rivera, a pediatrician, emphasized that the specific risks associated with COVID-19 during pregnancy are not fully understood. “Pregnant women typically have a slightly weakened immune system, which may increase their susceptibility to infections,” she explained. Women with pre-existing lung conditions should take extra precautions.
The risks posed by COVID-19 to pregnant women are somewhat similar to those posed by the flu, according to Dr. Emily Carter, a family physician. “It’s essential that pregnant women with asthma or other respiratory issues stay vigilant and have their medications readily available.”
Keeping Your Newborn Safe During the COVID-19 Pandemic
To protect your newborn, Dr. Thompson recommends applying general safety measures to mitigate COVID-19 risks. “Avoid large gatherings and ensure that anyone who has been ill stays away from your baby,” she advised. Regular hand washing is crucial; both parents and visitors should practice this diligently.
Dr. Rivera added that, fortunately, COVID-19 seems to be less severe in children, who often exhibit mild symptoms. “Hand hygiene is your best defense,” he reiterated.
What Breastfeeding Mothers Should Know About COVID-19
Information about breastfeeding in the context of COVID-19 is still evolving, but the consensus among doctors is reassuring: there is currently no evidence that the virus can be passed through breast milk. Dr. Carter affirmed, “Breastfeeding is generally safe, as most respiratory viruses are not transmitted via breast milk.” Furthermore, breast milk can enhance an infant’s immune system.
If a mother contracts COVID-19, she can still breastfeed, as long as she follows safety protocols such as rigorous hand washing and wearing a mask. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists continues to advocate for breastfeeding even in cases of known infection. It’s vital to discuss with your healthcare provider whether to breastfeed directly or use expressed milk, and if pumping, ensure proper cleaning of the equipment.
Deciding on Separation from Your Baby if Infected
If you test positive for COVID-19, you may wonder whether you should separate from your baby. Dr. Thompson highlighted the uncertainty surrounding newborns and serious complications from the virus. The decision to separate should be made collaboratively with your healthcare provider, considering factors such as the severity of your illness and the baby’s health.
In Conclusion
The medical professionals we spoke with unanimously agree that there are still many unknowns regarding COVID-19. However, they encourage parents to stay informed and rely on reputable sources, such as the CDC and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, which are frequently updating their guidelines on pregnancy and infant care.
Dr. Rivera reminded us to keep things in perspective: “While COVID-19 is concerning, many healthy individuals will likely not experience severe complications, similar to the flu.” So, as challenging as it may be, try to remain calm. Remember, this too shall pass.
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Summary
Expectant and new mothers can find some reassurance in the limited information available about COVID-19 and its effects on pregnancy and breastfeeding. While pregnant women may be more vulnerable to infections, current data suggests they do not face a greater risk of severe illness from COVID-19 compared to others. Breastfeeding is considered safe, and mothers with COVID-19 can continue to nurse with proper precautions. Decisions about care and potential separation from infected mothers should be made in consultation with healthcare providers.