The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention writes that “pregnant people seem to have the same risk as adults who are not pregnant.” Still, OB/GYN Dr. Nita Landry says pregnant women should protect themselves and be “very careful.”
To slow the spread of COVID-19, many hospitals are limiting the amount of visitors allowed inside. This means some women might have to give birth without the support of their partner, a family member, or a friend.
“We did not expect to be in a position where we would be suggesting in some situations that mom not bring a support person into the room with them because you know it's typically just a joyous occasion, and we want to involve as many people as possible,” she said. “The nursing staff and the doctors are aware it can be very stressful for moms if they have to come in their birthing situation and they're not able to bring someone with them, so the staff is definitely doing everything in their power to help support mom.”
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Dr. Nita Landry offered some advice for soon-to-be moms who aren’t allowed to have a support person in their delivery rooms.
“You just have to remind yourself these precautions are being taken in an effort to make sure that you and your beautiful baby go home healthy,” she said. “So it's a big sacrifice, but it's an important sacrifice, and it’s a sacrifice you’re making so you can have a lifetime of happiness with your baby and your partner.”
She encouraged new moms who are feeling anxious to tell their nurses and doctors.
“We know that he can't take the place of your loved one, but I tell you, we will try as hard as we can, however we can, to make your stay more pleasurable,” she said.
If a new mom tests positive for COVID-19, she will be separated from her baby after giving birth. The baby will be tested for COVID-19 too.
“There are hospitals in Southern California that have specific areas of the hospital designated for COVID-19 patients, meaning if we have a mom and she’s known to be COVID-19 positive or we are concerned, then when it comes to her labor and delivery course, we will have her deliver in that special area of a hospital,” Dr. Nita Landry said. “Once the baby is delivered, it will be recommended that mom and baby be separated to prevent infection of the baby from the mother.”
For moms who are considering delivering their babies at home, Dr. Nita Landry says hospitals are still the safest places to give birth even with the influx of COVID-19 patients.
“Reputable hospitals and birthing centers are taking the proper precautions to make sure that moms and babies are safe. However, a mom has a right to decide where she is going to deliver her baby,” she said.
