The ManicaPost
Are pregnant women at higher risk of COVID-19?
Research is currently underway to understand the impacts of COVID 19 infection on pregnant women. Data are limited, but at present there is no evidence that they are at higher risk of severe illness than the general population.
However, due to changes in their bodies and immune systems, we know that pregnant women can be badly affected by some respiratory infections. It is therefore important that they take precautions to protect themselves against COVID-19, and report possible symptoms (including fever, cough or difficulty breathing) to their healthcare provider.
WHO will continue to review and update its information and advice as more evidence becomes available.
Can COVID-19 be passed from a woman to her unborn or newborn baby?
We still do not know if a pregnant woman with COVID-19 can pass the virus to her foetus or baby during pregnancy or delivery. To date, the virus has not been found in samples of amniotic fluid or breastmilk.
Do pregnant women with suspected or confirmed COVID-19 need to give birth by Caesarean section?
No. WHO advice is that caesarean sections should only be performed when medically justified.
The mode of birth should be individualized and based on a woman’s preferences alongside obstetric indications.
Can women with COVID-19 breastfeed?
Yes. Women with COVID-19 can breastfeed if they wish to do so. They should:
*Practice respiratory hygiene during feeding, wearing a mask where available;
*Wash hands before and after touching the baby;
*Routinely clean and disinfect surfaces they have touched.
Can I touch and hold my newborn baby if I have COVID-19?
Yes. Close contact and early, exclusive breastfeeding helps a baby to thrive. You should be supported to
*Breastfeed safely, with good respiratory hygiene;
*Hold your newborn skin-to-skin, and
*Share a room with your baby
*You should wash your hands before and after touching your baby, and keep all surfaces clean.
I have COVID-19 and am too unwell to breastfeed my baby directly. What can I do?
If you are too unwell to breastfeed your baby due to COVID-19 or other complications, you should be supported to safely provide your baby with breastmilk in a way possible, available, and acceptable to you.
This could include expressing milk and relactation. — World Health Organisation
