نصائح للنساء لضمان السلامة خلال الحمل والولادة والوقاية من كوفيد19

Outbreak of the Coronavirus, COVID-19, has spread around the world, and it is classified by the World Health Organization as an epidemic.

Millions of people around the world are suffering in hospitals and doctors are fighting to prevent the spread of the virus by complying with World Health Organization (WHO) instructions, which include self-quarantine, hygiene, and measures taken by most governments of the countries affected by the epidemic.

Sexual and reproductive health are critical issues in public health during epidemics, as well as ensuring safety during pregnancy and childbirth that depend on the existence of effective health systems and strict commitment to the precautions aiming to stop the infection.

It is important to follow facts and confirmed information. We also have to stand united, fight social stigma and exclusion and ensure that women obtain the information and services they need, especially pregnant women and women who are nursing their babies.

The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) recommends that maternal health services be prioritized as a basic health service, including sexual and reproductive health care.

There is currently no scientific evidence that pregnant women are more likely to develop severe diseases than the general population, according to the World Health Organization.

However, due to changes in their bodies and immune system, pregnant women can be severely affected by some respiratory infections. So it is important that they take precautions to protect themselves from COVID-19.

There is also no evidence, until now, that pregnant women infected with COVID-19 can transmit the virus to their fetus during pregnancy or childbirth.

Thus far, the virus has not been found in samples of amniotic fluid or breast milk, according to the World Health Organization.

While most pregnant women feel alarmed by the current circumstances, doctors work on calming their fears and concerns, as the Egyptian Ministry of Health adopts recommended protocols for dealing with pregnant patients who might show symptoms of infection during labor, by preparing required facilities and training workers, and exchanging protocols with other hospitals.

As for breastfeeding, concerning its benefits and its small role in transmitting respiratory viruses, the mother can continue breastfeeding or pumping breast milk and storing it, while following the necessary precautions according to the instructions of the “UNICEF”.

Precautions for women during pregnancy are similar to precautions taken by the general public, including washing hands, social distancing, and avoiding touching of the eyes, nose, and mouth.

The procedures that pregnant women are required to take are the same as everyone else, but it is extremely important for them to have regular follow-up visits with their doctors, while taking special precautions to maintain social distance.

Doctors must also set specific schedules to ensure reducing the number of patients waiting in the clinic.

Pregnant mothers must also go to multi-service clinics where they can have follow-ups, receive ultrasound and any required check-ups in one visit.

Among the most prominent advices to prevent the spread of COVID-19 among pregnant women:

-Doctors advise women during pregnancy not to leave the house except for extreme necessary reasons or follow-up with the doctor, in order to prevent social mixing and transmission of infection.

-It is possible to make some follow-up appointments through video calls instead of going to the clinic.

-Wash your hands frequently for 20 seconds with soap and water, and dry them well

-Strengthening your immune system by paying attention to eating vegetables and fruits rich with vitamins, especially vitamin C. this diet enhances the immune system and reduces the risk of infection.

-Avoid touching surfaces in public places and wear masks, medical gloves and clean your hands constantly.

-Keep safe distance not less than one meter between you and any other person, and take special precautions for social distancing.

-Avoid touching the face, eyes and nose without washing your hands thoroughly, as the infection spreads through contact.

-Ask your doctor about the necessary vitamins and nutritional supplements for a pregnant woman during pregnancy to enhance the health of the fetus and protect the baby from diseases and infections.

-Stay away from people with flu symptoms even if it is a minor cold, to protect your immune system from the risk of infection.

-You should drink a lot of water and natural fluids as it enhances the health of the immune system.

-Your fear of COVID 19 is not a justification to undergo a cesarean delivery as long as you do not have health problems. Stay at home and follow the safety precautions, and make sure to have a normal delivery.

-Finally, my dear, please do not welcome a large number of family members and relatives in the hospital or the clinic, to ensure your own safety, the safety of your child, and the safety of your doctor.