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Coronavirus & Child Delivery

All you worried “mommy to be”- let’s fight against the corona virus and be prepared for the child birth

“Surge in Corona cases; States and country boundaries are sealed; People are ordered to stay home; Wear masks; Stay home stay safe” and the list goes on.

These days newspapers, social media and almost all the TV channels are flooded with such Covid-19 updates. The situation is alarming and getting worse day by day. It has affected every corner of the world. I have covered all the details about COVID-19 in my previous article: “Fighting the Battle of Corona.” When it comes to childbirth during Corona or any other pandemic, it is a matter of concern.  If your due date is arriving and it is making you anxious day by day, it’s time to plan and prepare yourself and your family for the child birth.

How to prepare for delivery during this time of pandemic?

Before the birth

1. Continuously stay in touch with your gynaecologist, the hospital and their daily changing policies. As there are so many unknown facts about this Covid-19, health care facilities are modifying their policies almost daily, as per the need. Staying in touch with the professionals will prepare you in advance for the emergency.
2. Next is to avoid visiting the hospital until very urgent. Almost all the health care organisations have started providing online/video consultation helps to the patients and to the people at higher risk. You can always consult your doctor online.
3. Avoid walking or touching things outside the labour room. Stay on your bed with your attendant.

After the birth 

4. Decide in advance who will accompany you in the hospital and avoid visitors (including your relatives). Elderly persons should strictly be prohibited around you and your baby.
5. Be prepared to face some unexpected challenges during and after the childbirth because some hospitals are limiting visitors, including your family members.
6. Shopping for the newborn would be tough during this pandemic, therefore ask your elders to arrange things from home.

I am so stressed right now. What can I do?

Below are some precautionary measures which you can follow in order to save yourself and your baby from the infection-

1. Social distancing
2. Avoid going out, until urgent.
3. Avoid contact with the person having corona symptoms.
4. Use your personal vehicle if going out.
5. Wash your hands frequently.
6. Ventilate your room and let the fresh air/sunlight in.
7. Indulge in meditation and other relaxing techniques.
8. Avoid listening corona news.
9. Follow government guidance strictly.
10. Use a tissue if you or anyone coughs or sneezes.
11. Avoid family or friends gatherings.

Whom to consult in case of emergency?

As I said earlier, stay in touch with your gynaecologist and your hospital for their updated policies. Keeping the view of India scenario, situations are much better as compared to other countries where hospitals are flooded with corona patients.  Few state police departments have launched an app to take permissions in order to move out, others have few different rules. Check with your local authorities and stay informed in prior.

Complete all the formalities for going to hospital before hand like taking police permission, having a vehicle pass

You and the accompanying person should wear mask / basically you have to cover your nose and mouth –any homemade cloth will also do

Carry your sanitizer and personal belongings

Tags: corona virus and child delivery, gynaecologist, safe child delivery, shrikhande IVF center