COVID and Pregnancy: What Every Expecting Mother Should Know 🤰🦠
COVID during pregnancy is a concern for many expecting mothers, but having the right information can help you stay safe. Catching COVID while pregnant does not automatically mean you or your baby will face serious complications. However, your immune system does change during pregnancy, making it even more important to stay informed about the risks, symptoms, and how best to protect yourself and your baby.
In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about COVID and pregnancy: how the virus can affect you and your baby, what symptoms to watch for, when to call your doctor, and practical tips to reduce anxiety through this special time.
What is COVID-19, and Why Is It Different for Pregnant Women?
COVID-19 is a respiratory infection caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Because pregnancy brings changes to your hormones and immune system, you may be more sensitive to certain viruses. Thankfully, COVID during pregnancy is most often mild, but there is a slightly higher risk for complications like pneumonia or preterm birth.
COVID Symptoms in Pregnancy
The most common symptoms of COVID in pregnancy are much the same as for anyone: fever, cough, sore throat, muscle aches, headache, fatigue, and shortness of breath. Some women also report loss of taste or smell, nausea, or diarrhea.
Most pregnant women with COVID experience mild to moderate illness. Watch for red flags: if your breathing gets worse, a high fever doesn’t come down, or your overall condition declines, seek medical care without delay.
How Does COVID Infection Affect the Baby?
Research shows that COVID-19 very rarely passes through the placenta to the fetus. While a few such cases have been documented, they are the exception. Healthy fetal development is overwhelmingly the norm, even when the mother gets COVID during pregnancy.
Pregnant women who become severely ill with COVID are at somewhat higher risk for:
- Preterm birth (before 37 weeks)
- Low birth weight
- Rarely, fetal distress (lack of oxygen)
- Maternal fever, especially early in pregnancy, which can increase certain developmental risks
Real-Life Examples
One expectant mom contracted COVID in her second trimester. She had mild fever, a bit of a cough, sore throat, and notable exhaustion. She worked from home, got plenty of rest, took Tylenol as advised by her doctor, and stayed hydrated. Her symptoms resolved in a few days and a follow-up ultrasound confirmed all was well with her baby.
Another pregnant woman in her third trimester experienced fever, cough, and shortness of breath. She immediately called her OB/GYN, who monitored her and advised regular fetal movement counts along with standard COVID care. She recovered spontaneously, and her baby was born healthy.
When to Call Your Doctor if You Suspect COVID in Pregnancy
Contact a healthcare provider immediately if you experience:
- Severe or prolonged breathing difficulties
- Fever over 101.3°F (38.5°C) that is hard to reduce
- Persistent chest pain
- Unusual decrease in fetal movement
- Dizziness, confusion, or extreme fatigue
📞 First, reach out to your OB/GYN or family doctor. For severe symptoms, hospital care may be necessary.
Preventing COVID-19 During Pregnancy
Practical Tips:
- Wash your hands often and thoroughly
- Avoid crowded places when possible
- Spend time outdoors and stay physically active
- Wear a mask in busy or poorly ventilated indoor spaces
- Be extra careful if anyone close to you tests positive or has symptoms
COVID Vaccination and Pregnancy
Leading medical authorities—including the CDC, ACOG, NHS, and others—recommend that pregnant women receive the COVID-19 vaccine. Vaccination greatly reduces the chances of severe illness and complications for both mother and baby.
The best timing for the vaccine depends on your situation, but it’s considered safe in any trimester. Most side effects are mild and temporary, such as arm soreness or headache.
What If You Get COVID During Pregnancy?
Rest as much as you can, stay well hydrated, and use acetaminophen (Tylenol) if you need to lower a fever—unless your doctor tells you otherwise, avoid ibuprofen. Always follow your doctor’s advice.
Monitor your baby’s movements two to three times a day, watching for any changes. If something doesn’t feel right, contact your healthcare provider immediately.
What NOT to Do
- Don’t try unproven home remedies or medications
- Don’t go out in public if you have symptoms
- Don’t delay asking for help if you feel worse
- Avoid excessive caffeine or any alcohol while recovering
Why Extra Caution Matters: The Medical Perspective
During pregnancy, your body works harder to support you and your baby. Because of this, infections like COVID-19 can pose higher risks compared to women who aren’t pregnant.
Fortunately, vaccination, healthy habits, and prompt medical care have dramatically improved the outlook for pregnant women facing COVID-19 infection.
Daily Self-Check Routines for Pregnant Women
- Take your temperature and (if possible) blood oxygen levels every day
- Regularly track how much and how often your baby moves
- Contact your doctor if you notice any new or worsening signs or symptoms
Managing Anxiety About COVID During Pregnancy
It’s natural to feel extra responsibility during the COVID-19 pandemic, but with accurate information and expert support, you can keep risks low. Adhering to health guidelines and staying in touch with your healthcare team will help you and your baby stay safe. Don’t be afraid to talk about your concerns with your partner, or seek professional support if anxiety lingers.
Current research shows that COVID during pregnancy rarely causes serious harm if you remain vigilant, get the right care, and stay informed. Trust your body and your healthcare team—together you have everything you need for a safe pregnancy journey. Still have questions? Download our free app for more practical information and peace of mind!