If you are pregnant, you might be worried about how to protect yourself and your baby during the recent outbreak of coronavirus (COVID-19). Learn what you can do to limit your exposure and reduce your risk for you and your family.
Pregnancy by itself requires some special care and precautions that will help you have a healthy delivery. But what effects can the Coronavirus pandemic cause today? According to what health experts have reported that this virus has not been shown to be more aggressive or more harmful in women who are pregnant.
How to take care of myself if I am pregnant?
While many pregnant women are more vulnerable to certain symptoms during this period, the recommended protection against coronavirus is the same as for the rest of your family. You can do this by:
Washing your hands regularly and frequently–use soap and water for 20 seconds or alcohol-based hand sanitiser/gel
- Using social distancing (stay 1.5 metres away from other people)
- Avoiding anyone who has a fever, cough or symptoms of a cold or chest infection
- Avoiding touching your eyes, nose, and mouth
If you are currently working, you can ask your employer what they are doing to protect their staff. Many businesses are providing guidelines for how employees should behave in the workplace; for example, by encouraging good hygiene, limiting meetings, and giving staff the option to work from home.
As everyone in Australia is being asked to stay at home unless you need to go out for essential reasons, like grocery shopping, medical appointments or going to work. During this time, it’s important you still eat well and get some exercise to ensure a healthy pregnancy.
This is also a very stressful and worrying time for people and whether you are a first-time mum or already a parent, not having your usual support network around you can make it hard. Keep in touch with your family and friends through phone calls and video and stay connected on social media with groups that can help support you during this time
Having regular check-ups during your pregnancy is important to monitor the health of you and your baby. However, it is understandable that during this time you might be concerned about going to your GP or hospital. Before making any changes to your appointments, it is important that you speak to your doctor first.
Find time for yourself before your baby arrives. Enjoy the moments in your home decorating your baby's room, preparing your own things for the arrival of the new member, or even getting inspired by the thousands of ideas that you will find on the internet.
Take a moment to pause, breathe, re-energise and self-care:
- Treat yourself to home facial for that pick me up and skin glowing feeling.
- Did you know taking 10-15 minutes out of your colouring can help your mind to destress
- Get in contact with a friend and have a chat.
- Exercise and get outdoors.
