Pregnancy in covid days

Pandemic days are really tough days for all around the globe. Pregnancy during this time makes it even more tough. It does require more attention, but it is not a nightmare! Trust me, I had been there!

I was in 7th month of pregnancy when Covid started hitting India in March. I reduced my visits to hospital. Monitoring baby movements myself was of prime importance.I delayed my scans and booster dose injection. But in case of emergencies don’t hesitate to visit your doctor.

You can opt for online consultations if it is routine checkup and everything is fine with you. You can order devices that are used to monitor baby heartbeat rates so that you don’t have to go to hospital if you worried about baby movements. Some hospitals give this device on rent as well.

One of the major concern is help after delivery for post natal care which is given lot of importance in India. Generally we go for external help post delivery. If you have any relative who knows about post natal care, check if they can stay with you. If not, look for a person who is good at post pregnancy care and is ready to stay with you. It is advisable to do Covid test for any external help you take and ensure it is negative. It is recommended that the help also do not mingle with outsiders as they will be in close touch with baby and mother.

Pregnant women are advised to not go outside other that emergency situations or hospital visits. But staying home always can be tough especially in days when hormones control our moods. You can go  outside for a ride in car with mask and precautions. Avoid places with lot of people or closed rooms.

You can order your iron calcium tablets in bulk to prevent frequent visits to medical store. Also you can stock up a few new born essentials before delivery, wash it and dry it or sanitise them.Also you can stock up maternity wear and essentials. Check with your hospital on the baby kit that they will provide and also on the items that you should take to hospital.

If you are not able to go outside for walk, you can walk inside your home. Also do breathing exercises daily. If doctor do not restrict you from doing exercises, then do yoga or exercises regularly. Pelvic floor strengthening exercises are good for normal delivery. Ensure enough mobility inside home and don’t confine to sedentary lifestyle.

People who are in close contact with pregnant woman also should ensure they follow all safety measures. It will be good to check with hospitals on restrictions they currently have like number of by-standers are limited to 1 or 2 and no visitors allowed, availability of food on hospitalisation,etc.

If you already have a kid, then try not to take them to hospital for regular checkup. Instead check for options like leaving them with a safe and trusted family, else husband and kid can stay in car while you go to consult doctor.

Above all, it is very important to stay happy during pregnancy and thus ensure good health of mother and baby. Indulge in activities that makes you relax, pamper yourself, talk to people. This is one of the best phase in life, enjoy your days. Stay safe, stay happy!