What to expect when expecting during the COVID-19 crisis - The Evesham Observer

What to expect when expecting during the COVID-19 crisis

Evesham Editorial 18th Apr, 2020 Updated: 25th Apr, 2020   0

AS PRIME Minister Boris Johnson recuperates from his battle against the Coronavirus, his pregnant fiancee Carrie Symonds opened up about her recovery from Coronavirus symptoms which left her bed-bound for more than a week.​

The COVID-19 outbreak has caused a lot of uncertainty for mums-to-be, with little information currently about the impact the virus could have on pregnant women and new-born babies. ​​

The Observer has teamed up with Lil-Lets to look at the advice pregnant women should be following.​​

MUMS-TO-BE and their families must take all the precautions recommended by the Government, including self-isolation and social distancing. ​​




As well as this, pregnant women need to take good care of their own mental health and well-being, thinking creatively about how to get the care and resources they need despite these most difficult of times. ​​

Although there have been no specific dangers linking Covid-19 to pregnancy, it’s still of vital importance to take any precautionary measures possible as there are still many unknowns about the exact nature of the virus. Self-isolation should therefore be practiced by pregnant women wherever possible. ​​


The Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RCOG) have published a report titled ‘Coronavirus (COVID-19) Infection in Pregnancy’. Although there are still many unknowns about the effect the virus could have on pregnant women, this report has shed some light. ​​

“The large majority of women will experience only mild or moderate cold/flu like symptoms. Cough, fever and shortness of breath are other relevant symptoms,” the report said.​​

“There are currently no data suggesting an increased risk of miscarriage or early pregnancy loss in relation to COVID-19.” ​​

Being pregnant whilst social distancing ​​

Social distancing is difficult for most of us, but when pregnant, it can feel even more isolating. Luckily, there are a number of things that you and your family can do to help ease the burden. ​​

When you’re pregnant, especially if you’re a first-time mum, a strong support network is essential to help you cope with all the changes you’re undergoing. As well as reaching out to your friends and family, take advantage of online forums to talk to people in the same position as yourself. ​​

You’ll be able to get a plethora of advice from mums who have already had their children. But given the drastic times we are currently living in, no one will quite understand what you’re going through apart from other currently pregnant women. Find them online, talk to them, and create a network — this way you won’t have to face any uncertainty alone. ​​

Buying maternity clothes ​​

During the Covid-19 crisis, you won’t be able to wander out to the shops to buy something new. So turn instead to online shopping. There are many maternity ranges available online and a lot of clothes retailers such as H&M are now offering free shipping on all items.​​

Satisfying cravings ​​

Thankfully, we still have access to many of our favourite restaurants and cafes in takeaway form, as well as online delivery from supermarkets. Whatever your pregnancy cravings may be, don’t feel guilty about getting as much as your favourite food delivered online as possible! Add a note to the delivery service asking them to drop off the order outside to avoid social contact. ​​

Maintaining your physical health ​​

It can be hard to stay active while you’re pregnant, and even more difficult when you’re stuck in the confines of your home. The internet, yet again, is a saving grace here. ​​

Access some online pregnancy-specific exercise videos such as yoga, or sit-down Pilates, and try and factor in some exercise to your daily routine – nothing too strenuous, just enough to add a bit more movement into your day-to-day and minimise any aches and pains. ​​

Caring for your mental health ​​

It’s no wonder that your mental health might be suffering during these testing times, so unlock some coping methods to help you stay in a positive mindset. ​​

Practice mindfulness (many apps, or audiotapes on the subject are available) and stay in close contact with friends and loved ones. Remember, even if people can’t be there for you physically, they are only a phone call away. ​​

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