COVID 19 is a novel disease which has left the world in alarming situation because of its speed of spread. It is a single stranded RNA enveloped virus which can cause disease ranging from asymptotic to mild cold to severe life threatening pneumonia.

Are pregnant women at more risk due to COVID-19?
Since it’s a new virus, it’s safer to include pregnant women in the moderate-risk group. Pregnancy is a immunocompromised state so pregnant women may be more vulnerable particularly in the third trimester and symptoms can be expected to be more severe. However data suggests most COVID-19 infections are usually of mild variety.
Pregnant women with heart disease are at highest risk (congenital or acquired).

Will the baby get affected by COVID-19.?

With regard to vertical transmission (transmission from mother to baby antenatally or intrapartum), emerging evidence now suggests that vertical transmission is probable, although the proportion of pregnancies affected and the significance to the neonate has yet to be determined. Data is still not available regarding long term effects to the child.
There are currently no data suggesting an increased risk of miscarriage or early pregnancy loss in relation to COVID-19. However there may be increase in preterm deliveries.

There is no evidence currently that the virus is teratogenic that is capable of causing abnormalities in the foetus. Long term data is awaited.
COVID-19 infection is currently not an indication for Medical Termination of Pregnancy.

Safety precautions:

1.wash your hands or sanitize regularly
2.showering when you re-enter the house and washing the clothes you travelled in.
3.stay at home as much as possible and follow the advice on social distancing, such as staying at least 2 metres (3 steps) away from other people
4.stay away from anyone who has symptoms of coronavirus
5.Avoid travelling wear face masks when necessary
6. Keeping mobile and hydrated.
7. Vitamin D supplements to be taken when prescribed.
8. Practice respiratory hygiene:Cough sneeze into bent elbow or tissue
9. Do not touch your face nose and eyes often

Consult your doctor if you have :
1. Fever
2. Cough
3. Breathlessness
4. Body ache
5. nasal congestion, runny nose, sore throat.

Or any pregnancy related issues like:
1. Reduced baby movement
2. Bleeding.
3. Watery discharge
4. Pain abdomen
5. Chest pain
6. Headache or blurred vision
7. Excessive vomiting

Visiting hospitals when necessary for tests and scans. Otherwise tele video consultations can be considered to minimise risks.

STAY SAFE AND HEALTHY.