Pregnancy is an exciting and sometimes stressful experience. Being pregnant during a disease outbreak may add extra anxiety and concern for you and those you care about who are pregnant.
According to the CDC, pregnant people do not appear to be at greater risk of getting COVID-19 but may get sicker when infected with COVID-19. Due to changes that occur during pregnancy, pregnant people may be more susceptible to viral respiratory infections.
If you are pregnant, you were pregnant in the last 42 days (recently pregnant) or you are breastfeeding, you’re probably concerned about the impact of COVID-19 on you and your baby. You might also have questions about the safety of the COVID-19 vaccines. Here’s what you need to know.
Risks during pregnancy
The overall risk of COVID-19 to pregnant women is low. However, women who are pregnant or were recently pregnant are at increased risk of severe illness with COVID-19. Severe illness means that you might need to be hospitalized, have intensive care or be placed on a ventilator to help with breathing. Pregnant women with COVID-19 are also more likely to deliver a baby before the start of the 37th week of pregnancy (premature birth). Pregnant women with COVID-19 might also be at increased risk of problems such as stillbirth and pregnancy loss.
Pregnant women who are Black or Hispanic are more likely to be affected by infection with the COVID-19 virus. Pregnant women who have other medical conditions, such as diabetes, also might be at even higher risk of severe illness due to COVID-19.
Contact your health care provider right away if you have COVID-19 symptoms or if you’ve been exposed to someone with COVID-19. It’s recommended that you get tested for the COVID-19 virus. Before going to your appointment, call ahead of time to tell your health care provider about your symptoms and possible exposure.
If you have COVID-19 and are pregnant, your health care provider might recommend treatment with a monoclonal antibody medication. Treatment with a monoclonal antibody medication involves a single infusion given by needle in the arm (intravenously) in an outpatient setting. Monoclonal antibody medications are most effective when given soon after COVID-19 symptoms start.
Your treatment may also include getting plenty of fluids and rest. You may also take medication to reduce fever, relieve pain or lessen coughing. If you’re very ill, you may need to be treated in the hospital.
For more information and resources, visit NYC DOHMH website by clicking on this link https://www1.nyc.gov/site/doh/covid/covid-19-pregnancy.page
