In the ongoing situation of the COVID-19 virus spreading continuously, “pregnant mothers” are another group who feel quite concerned. If infected with the virus, will it affect the baby in the womb? Should the pregnancy be terminated? Or will it still be possible to breastfeed the baby? We have answers from doctors to share with you.
Q: How should pregnant mothers take care of themselves during the coronavirus outbreak?
A: Avoid going to crowded places. If travel is necessary, keep a distance of about 1.5 meters from others. Wash hands frequently with alcohol gel or soap. Wear a face mask. If coughing or sneezing, use a cloth or tissue to cover your mouth and nose. According to current data, pregnant mothers are not at higher risk of infection than others. Reports from China found 38 pregnant mothers infected, with mild symptoms, no deaths, and full recovery.
Q: Does frequent use of alcohol gel or spray cause side effects for the mother or the fetus?
A: Frequent use of alcohol gel or spray does not cause side effects for the mother or the fetus.
Q: If a pregnant mother contracts the coronavirus, will the virus be transmitted to the fetus? And should the pregnancy be terminated?
A: According to reports of 38 infected pregnant mothers from China, no infants were found to be infected with the virus, and the virus was not detected in amniotic fluid, placenta, umbilical cord blood, or breast milk. This means it does not affect the pregnancy, and termination is not necessary. Doctors will provide care the same as for pregnant mothers who are not infected.
Q: If a pregnant mother is infected with the virus, how can she be treated?
A: If there is fever, cough, difficulty breathing, sore throat, or runny nose, she should see a doctor for examination and treatment. The doctor will test for the virus immediately. In cases without symptoms, it must be considered whether the person is at high risk or has had close contact with a high-risk individual. If yes, she should see a doctor for virus testing.
Q: If a pregnant mother is infected, is a cesarean section necessary?
A: It is not necessary. Cesarean section will be performed based on medical indications as determined by the doctor, and anesthesia can be administered via spinal block.
Q: After delivery, can the mother hold and cuddle the baby?
A: After delivery, the baby will be separated for virus testing first. If the baby tests negative, the mother can hold and cuddle the baby but must wear a mask, wash hands before and after touching the baby, avoid coughing or sneezing on the baby, and clean surfaces touched with disinfectant.
Q: Can infected mothers breastfeed their babies?
A: Yes, but precautions must be taken to prevent the baby from getting infected by wearing a face mask, washing hands before and after touching the baby, avoiding coughing or sneezing while breastfeeding, cleaning surfaces or objects touched with disinfectant, or alternatively, pumping milk and having a relative or caregiver feed the baby.
For prenatal care, doctors will provide care the same as for uninfected pregnant women. During infection, isolation for at least 14 days or until the virus is no longer detected is required. However, the important thing is that pregnant mothers should not be overly stressed, as stress can further reduce immunity against infections.
Dr. Korakot Namsena
Specialist in Obstetrics and Gynecology – Laparoscopic Gynecologic Surgery
Women’s Health Center, Phyathai Nawamin Hospital
