Pregnancy during the time of COVID19 is most likely to stress the mother as well as the family members since pregnancy is a delicate stage and suppresses a person’s immune system making the pregnant mom vulnerable to infection. In order to make the environment safe for pregnant women, gynaecologists are managing antenatal care during pregnancy through online video consultations.
But on her part it is important for the to-be mother to take care of herself by following the safety and preventive measures until delivery. Here are a few tips we have put together for you;

1. Visiting hospital? Ensure you have a clear appointment with the exact time slot so that you don’t have to hang around waiting for your turn. If due to some reason, you are required to wait, and if convenient, wait in your car or the waiting area for pregnant moms rather than hanging around in the common waiting room. Wear a mask, maintain strict social distancing protocols and carry a portable sanitizer in your bag. Also, once back from the hospital, if possible have a bath or change into fresh clothes.

2. Immunity is what you need: As pregnancy lowers your immune system, ensure that your diet contains immunity-boosting and nutrient-rich foods. Include fruits of all colours, leafy vegetables, seeds and nuts. Get enough vitamin C and D, zinc, magnesium and selenium--nutrients possibly already in the supplements that your doctor might have prescribed. Also, drink lots of water through the day. Ensure your food has herbs such as turmeric and black pepper which are currently being said as helpful in keeping COVID at bay.

3. Plan a routine with practices of relaxation and mindfulness: Plan your ‘new normal’ routine from home where you manage your sleep cycle, explore your hobbies, skills, start reading books on motherhood and connect with the baby. Do not forget to add a dose of relaxation with the help of meditation, a funny movie or music as they improve brain blood flow, increase the production of positive hormones (endorphins) and decrease oxidative stress. You can do some light yoga exercises but take online consultation on the same from an expert first. Try and avoid binging on the news channels and social media. It will only add to your anxiety and make you nervous. 

4. Keep yourself active: If you are not able to do yoga, try to include low impact exercises such as walking at home, dancing to your favourite song, some gentle stretches and so. Or go for a safe outdoor walk when the area is comparatively less populated, with all the necessary safety precautions in mind, as a good dose of fresh air will do wonders for your mental wellbeing. It will help enhance your sleep, physical stamina and even help you to prepare for labour and birth.  

5. Focus on mental wellbeing: Just as careful you try to be with your physical well-being, make sure to put in extra effort to check whether you are happy emotionally as well. In the current conditions, you might feel extremely overwhelmed, which is normal. But prolonged symptoms of these feelings might lead to anxiety, sadness and loneliness. If you are feeling any of these, it is advisable for you to have a clear conversation with your doctor and get professional help.

Staying happy is important for a mother-to-be and her baby. If you can’t meet your loved ones or friends because of social distancing, organize online group gatherings where you can talk, vent out, discuss your concerns and feel connected with your friends.