FAQs about pregnancy during Covid-19

The coronavirus pandemic is sweeping across the world at a rapid pace. With global Covid-19 cases reaching the one-millionth mark, there has been a stir of worry among many people.

The United Nations Children’s Fund (Unicef) has outlined some frequently asked questions (FAQs) by pregnant women during this time.

Greer van Zyl, Unicef specialist communications consultant gave us five FAQs from pregnant women in South Africa:

1. What effect does coronavirus have on pregnant women?

Generally, pregnant women do not appear to be more severely unwell than the general population if they develop coronavirus.

As this is a new virus, it is not yet clear how it may affect you. It is expected the large majority of pregnant women will experience only mild or moderate cold/flu-like symptoms.

2. Is it easier for pregnant women to become ill with the disease?

The available limited evidence suggests that pregnant women do not show a greater risk of acquiring Covid-19 or having severe symptoms compared to other adults. But in general, pregnant women are more susceptible to viral respiratory infections such as the flu.

Maintain a healthy lifestyle. This includes:

• Eating healthy foods
• Getting at least eight hours of sleep
• Continuing with antenatal care
• Reducing stress as much as possible
• Staying healthy helps your immune system fight off infection should it occur.

3. What are the signs of coronavirus?

The symptoms (the signs that show that a person may be infected with the virus) are very similar to that of a common cold or flu. It may include signs such a fever, feeling tired, coughing, aches and pains, nasal congestion (also called a stuffy nose), runny nose, sore throat or diarrhea (a runny tummy).

If you have fever, cough and difficulty breathing, seek medical care. Contact your clinic or doctor or call the coronavirus (Covid-19) hotline on 0800 029 999 for further information and advice.

4. If pregnant women become infected, will they be more sick than other people?

Generally, pregnant women do not appear to be more severely unwell than the general population if they develop coronavirus. However, if you develop more severe symptoms or your recovery is delayed, if you feel your symptoms are worsening, or if you are not getting better, immediately contact your clinic/doctor or call the coronavirus outbreak 24-hour hotline on 0800 029 999 for further information and advice.

5. What can I do to reduce my risk of catching coronavirus?

• The most important thing to do is to wash your hands with soap regularly and effectively as soon as you come from public places to your home or workplace.
• If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitiser.
• If you cough or sneeze, cover your nose and mouth with a flexed elbow or tissue. Remember to throw the tissue away in closed dustbin after it was used and wash your hands.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
• Avoid touching anybody.
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• Stay at home when you are sick and try to keep a distance of 1 metre from others at home.

Related articles:

https://www.citizen.co.za/sandton-chronicle/261832/mediclinic-measures-to-help-flatten-the-pandemic-curve/

https://www.citizen.co.za/sandton-chronicle/263291/covid-19-deal-panic-lockdown/

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