Pregnancy in times of pandemic is certainly associated with greater fears and dilemmas than those in normal times. Many girls / women are expecting to bring their children to life at a time when the whole world has been isolated for fear of spreading coronavirus. Even in highly developed countries, pregnant women are still considering giving birth at home to avoid a possible infection, but what should they know?
If the mother discovers she is affected by coronavirus, should the newborn stay away from her? Some medical representatives in China or the US have recommended the isolation of infants from their infected mothers; others, including the WHO, insist that the mother breast-feed the infant, but taking measures (wearing a mask).
More than 200 million pregnant women worldwide are at a potential risk of becoming infected with Covid-10 and studies are still in their infancy as to the level of risk presented to them or to newborns.
Many doctors are of the opinion that physical contact and breastfeeding strengthen the baby's immune system. Add to this the fact that most children in the world are not affected by the new virus. Those affected also show mild symptoms.
Another problem that comes up at such a time is limited professional care. Many hospitals have stopped all visitors, including the pregnant woman's partner, to prevent the spread of coronavirus to other patients or staff.
The good news in all of this is that Covid-19 has so far not caused any complications in children, including newborns. Numerous studies have shown that infants can be infected even without getting sick.
Most data have shown that babies do not get the virus without giving birth, but other studies published in JAMA suggest that this may be possible.
In terms of breastfeeding, it is the best way mothers can protect their babies from infections, viruses or germs.
Since Covid-19 is a new virus, scientists have not yet been able to determine precisely how it affects pregnancy.
Even for pregnant women, like everyone else, the main advice is hygiene. Washing your hands with soap for 20 seconds is very important. Avoid touching eyes, mouth or nose and also people. Social distancing is very important for reducing the spread. Hydrate and rest long enough to strengthen the immune system.
Source: Science Mag & Los Angeles Times
