Tips for pregnant women on staying healthy during the pandemic
Rose May Pimentel in Health
Jun 05, 2020 • 2 min Read
Being pregnant is hard but being pregnant in a pandemic feels even harder. Pregnancy is supposed to be a special time full of excitement for expectant mothers. But because of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) outbreak, fear, anxiety, and uncertainty are clouding this otherwise happy time.
You should not worry because it is possible to maintain a healthy pregnancy during this pandemic. Here are some tips from American Pregnancy Association to keep you and your baby healthy during this pandemic:
* Keep Your Prenatal Appointments. Your doctor knows your current condition, health risks, and can provide the best recommendations for you. They may be able to take care of prescriptions and other needs by phone or video chat.
* Use technology to track your health. Pregnancy apps such as myFetalLife app (recommended by the American Pregnancy Association) may help you track your vitals including blood pressure, weight changes, gestational diabetes, and your baby’s growth. You can transmit all this important information to your doctor and use it during your remote visit.
* In case this outbreak disrupts your normal healthcare, keep your medical records easily accessible.
* Know the symptoms of COVID-19 and the differences between it, flu and a common cold. You want to avoid fever.
* Effective hand washing is one of the best ways to protect yourself and your family from getting sick and spreading germs.
* Practice the 6-foot social distancing rule. Viruses spread through contact with other people and COVID-19 spreads through respiratory droplets – think about sneezes and coughs.
* Carry gloves and sanitizing wipes. That way if you do have to leave the house, you can clean before/after you touch a surface or been exposed to someone.
* Thorough home cleaning. Keep doing a great job cleaning and disinfecting frequently touched surfaces and objects.
* The benefits of exercise. Exercise will help your mood, improve your sleep and help generate more energy for all the cleaning you’re doing. Not sure how? Try an online yoga, dance or light weights exercise video.
* Develop your birthing plan. This helps you think through numerous choices, communicates your preferences to your medical team – such as how to manage labor pain, and if you want umbilical cord blood collected.
* Cook new nutritious recipes.
* Reading engaging stories and watching uplifting movies can brighten your mood. Just avoid being a couch potato.
* Video chat with friends and family. There’s nothing like smiling face to face with those you love to lift your spirits.
And, stay at home as much as possible. Stay calm, be positive and prioritize your physical and mental health. Stay healthy and safe, mom-to-be!
