I’m pregnant and have questions about Coronavirus

While pregnant, am I at greater risk of contracting Coronavirus?

Right now, we don’t have much data on Coronavirus and pregnancy. What we do know is that if you’re experiencing a low-risk pregnancy, with no other medical concerns, you’re at no greater risk than a non-pregnant person. If you were to contract Coronavirus, you’ll likely recover just like any other low-risk person would.

 We recommend following the CDC’s guidelines: Stay home, practice social distancing, wash your hands often, and don’t touch your face.

Can I pass Coronavirus to my baby?

Unfortunately, there’s not much data on this right now. However — in the few cases that have occurred — Coronavirus didn’t pass from mom to baby. There’s also no evidence of the virus in breast milk and amniotic fluid.

I’m scared I’ll get Coronavirus while pregnant. What can I do to protect myself?

Keep the CDC’s guidelines in mind:

• Stay in your home.
• Practice social distancing.
• Wash your hands or use hand sanitizer often.
• Avoid touching your face.

Reach out to your doctor for other precautionary steps if you have a chronic medical condition.

To avoid going out, should I skip my prenatal visits?

No, continue to go to your visits. They’re important to ensure you and your baby are healthy. Reach out to your OB to see what virtual options may be available to you.

Is it safe to continue fertility treatments?

Yes – you can continue your treatments, but reach out to your OB or fertility specialist for more information.

I’m feeling coronavirus symptoms and I’m pregnant. What should I do?

First, stay in your home and distance yourself from others. Then, call your OB. Your doctor can evaluate you over the phone and will give you appropriate next steps.

When it’s time to deliver, what steps may have changed at the hospital?

Call your OB for answers on your specific labor and delivery questions. Many hospitals are following strict protocols out of safety concerns for patients — just like you and your baby.

What is the visitor policy at my hospital? I don’t want to deliver alone.

We recommend contacting your OB or the hospital you’re delivering at for more details. In most cases, hospitals are allowing only one visitor in the labor and delivery area. This is hard, but it’s done to keep patients safe.

With hospital restrictions in place, should I consider a home birth?

Delivering your baby in a hospital is still the safest option. Hospitals provide comprehensive medical care and can handle any concerns that may arise.

Should I get induced early because of Coronavirus?

No — the pandemic should not change your delivery. Talk to your doctor about any specific medical concerns.

If I’m breastfeeding, can I transmit Coronavirus to my baby?

While there’s limited data on this, there’s no evidence that the virus can be transmitted through breast milk.

Will I be discharged earlier to make space in the hospital?

You’ll be able to leave the hospital one day after a vaginal delivery or two days after a caesarean if you are healthy.

I don’t feel any symptoms, but should I get tested for Coronavirus anyway?

Testing is very limited. If you’re not showing symptoms and haven’t been directly exposed, stay safely at home.

Will I need a cesarean delivery if I have Coronavirus?

No — your birth plan shouldn’t change because of Coronavirus.

I tested positive for Coronavirus while pregnant. What now?

Call your OB for guidance and next steps.

If my baby needs to stay in the NICU, will I still be able to visit?

Most hospitals are taking extreme precautions to keep their littlest patients safe. Reach out to your OB or hospital for more details on visitation policies.