The ongoing shift in our understanding of COVID-19 has been overwhelming for many. Initially, we believed that younger individuals, including teenagers and children, were at minimal risk. However, emerging research has proven that everyone must take steps to protect themselves.
When COVID-19 first emerged, there was a perception that pregnant individuals might not be at a heightened risk—largely due to a lack of definitive evidence at the time. As we navigate through this unprecedented situation, it’s critical to heed the advice of healthcare professionals and stay informed based on new studies and findings.
A friend of mine was due to have her first child in May, and I checked in with her in March. She was still working in the medical field and mentioned that her doctor reassured her that she was not considered at increased risk, which alleviated her worries. Thankfully, she welcomed a healthy baby a month early, and as far as she knows, she never contracted the virus.
However, as we continue to learn more about COVID-19, new data is surfacing regularly, and it’s essential to remain updated. A recent report from the CDC indicates that pregnant individuals who contract COVID-19 may experience more severe symptoms and complications compared to those who are not pregnant.
The study analyzed data from 400,000 women aged 15 to 44 with symptomatic COVID-19 and discovered that pregnant women faced a higher likelihood of requiring intensive care and invasive ventilation. They were also found to have a 70% increased risk of death compared to their non-pregnant counterparts. While the overall risk remains low, it highlights that pregnant individuals should take additional precautions. As reported by The New York Times, pregnancy is now classified as a condition that increases the risk of severe illness from COVID-19, including potential fatality.
From January to November 2020, the CDC documented over 36,000 COVID cases among pregnant women, resulting in 50 fatalities. Although experts note that fetal infections late in pregnancy seem to be rare, and there is cautious optimism regarding the virus’s impact on early fetal development, pregnant individuals are indeed more vulnerable due to their unique physiological changes. The strain on the lungs and cardiovascular system can be exacerbated by the virus, making it even more vital for expecting parents to take preventive measures.
To protect themselves, wearing masks and practicing social distancing is essential. This includes avoiding close contact with friends and family who may have been exposed to the virus. However, pregnant individuals should not skip their prenatal appointments and should receive their flu shot, as emphasized by health scientist, Mia Johnson, from the CDC.
As we gather more information, it’s crucial to stay informed and take necessary precautions. The broader community must also be aware of these findings—neglecting safety measures can put vulnerable individuals at risk.
Indeed, being pregnant is challenging under normal circumstances, and the ongoing pandemic complicates matters further. This new report underscores the importance of acknowledging the risks and adapting our behaviors accordingly.
For more information on pregnancy and home insemination, check out this excellent resource. If you’re interested in further reading, visit one of our other blog posts here.
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Summary:
Recent research reveals that pregnant individuals are more susceptible to severe complications from COVID-19 than previously believed. The CDC reports an increased risk of hospitalization and mortality among pregnant women who contract the virus, emphasizing the need for heightened precautions. It is imperative for expecting parents to maintain regular prenatal care while adhering to safety measures such as mask-wearing and social distancing.