Pregnant women need specialized care throughout their pregnancies. Prenatal care can ensure that you and your baby are safe and healthy. The coronavirus places new stresses on expectant mothers. However, you can rest assured that your OBGYN will do everything within their power to help you have a successful pregnancy. Here are four things your OBGYN can do to keep you healthy during the pandemic:
1. Require masks in the doctor's office
Expectant mothers should visit their OBGYN for an appointment at least once a month. As your pregnancy progresses, your appointment frequency will gradually increase to biweekly and eventually weekly. Since you'll be at the doctor's office so often, it's important that you protect yourself there. For your safety and the safety of other patients, your OBGYN doctor will require that you wear a mask in their office. Masks prevent the spread of germs that could infect you with COVID-19.
2. Offer a flu shot
The flu is a common virus that mutates every year. Fortunately, new flu shots are developed each year to protect people from the most common strains of influenza. The flu is especially dangerous for certain people, including pregnant women. Your OBGYN doctor can offer you a flu shot, which will help your immune system fight off the flu. A flu shot won't protect you from the coronavirus, but it can prevent another dangerous respiratory illness.
3. Help you devise a safe birth plan
A birth plan helps determine the course of your labor. Some women want an unmedicated birth while others prefer anesthetic to help them through delivery. Some common practices, such as having family members in the room, are unsafe during the coronavirus pandemic. Your OBGYN doctor will help you devise a birth plan that complies with social distancing requirements so you and your child can stay safe during labor.
4. Suggest everyday health and safety practices
Your doctor will ensure their office is a safe place for you during your appointments. However, you must do your part to stay healthy in between doctor's visits. Your OBGYN will give you guidelines to follow throughout your pregnancy, like washing your hands frequents, avoiding facial touching, and wearing masks in public. If you have a high-risk pregnancy, your doctor may suggest you take additional precautions, such as quarantining yourself in your home to avoid exposure to the coronavirus. Your doctor will work with you to come up with an effective health plan.