Expanded Insights Reveal COVID-19's Impact on Pregnancy
Pregnancy during a pandemic: Navigating COVID-19 risks and precautions
Expectant mothers face unique challenges amidst the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. While the potential consequences of contracting the virus during pregnancy have raised concerns, significant advancements in knowledge and tools have empowered mothers to better safeguard themselves and their unborn babies.
Over the past few years, researchers have delved deeper into the complexities of COVID-19's impact on pregnant individuals and their fetuses. Though the risks of unwanted pregnancy outcomes and potential maternal health issues have been identified, experts also acknowledge that in the vast majority of cases, negative outcomes are rare.
Understanding the Risks for Mothers and Babies
COVID-19 increases the risk of pregnancy complications, such as preterm birth, low birth weight, and pneumonia, for those who are pregnant. However, the likelihood of experiencing severe outcomes is low, usually less than 1%.
"The risks for pregnant individuals now are significantly less compared to the early days of the pandemic," explains Linda Eckert, MD, OB-GYN and professor of obstetrics and gynecology at the UW School of Medicine. "However, it's still important to be vigilant."
The third trimester poses increased danger due to the uterus's continued growth, leading to more compression of the lungs and an elevated risk of fluid accumulation. Additionally, preterm labor is more likely to occur in the third trimester with a serious illness.
Safer Practices During Pregnancy
The COVID-19 vaccine is the most potent defense against the virus for expectant mothers. Despite lingering concerns about vaccine safety during pregnancy, extensive data have shown that it is both effective and safe for mothers and their babies.
"More than three years of data shows no adverse health effects or harmful side effects for children who were exposed to the vaccine while in their mother's womb," Eckert says.
The antibodies produced by mothers in response to the vaccine will travel through their placenta, protecting their babies throughout the first few months of their lives when they are most vulnerable.
Practicing basic hygiene measures such as handwashing, maintaining social distance, and masking in crowded settings can further help keep mothers and their babies safe.
When COVID-19 Strikes During Pregnancy
If confirmed to have contracted COVID-19 during pregnancy, mothers should promptly inform their healthcare providers. Even if they feel well, deviations from the norm need to be closely monitored.
Eckert advises treating pregnant people who test positive for COVID-19 with antiviral therapy such as Paxlovid to minimize the risk of severe complications. Keeping an eye on symptoms like shortness of breath, coughing, and fevers is crucial. Communicating with healthcare providers and having regular check-ins is essential to ensure proper care during the illness.
Post-Delivery Considerations
The protection provided by the mother's vaccination and antibodies passed through her breastmilk ensures that the baby remains protected throughout the vulnerable early months.
Babies can receive their own pediatric COVID-19 vaccines starting at six months old, further boosting their protection.
If a mother contracts COVID-19 post-delivery, Eckert recommends masking when breastfeeding to protect the newborn. Additionally, mothers can expect their bodies to begin producing antibodies within 14 days to pass to their baby.
A Journey Through an Unprecedented Era
As we move into the fifth year of the pandemic, more information about COVID-19 and its effects on pregnancy has become available, offering reassurances and guidance to expectant mothers. Through a combination of vaccination, basic safety measures, and close communication with healthcare providers, mothers can focus on nurturing their new additions, confident in the knowledge that they've done everything possible to protect them.
News regarding parenthood indicates that expectant mothers continue to face unique challenges in the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, particularly during the third trimester. However, significant advancements in scientific research and health-and-wellness measures have empowered mothers to minimize risks, with the COVID-19 vaccine serving as the most potent defense against the virus. Mental-health support is essential for women during this period as they navigate these complexities.
