As cases of the Omicron variant of COVID-19 continue to rise, pregnant women need to be careful. There are a lot of misconceptions regarding Covid-19 and pregnancy. It is the need of the hour to separate facts from fiction, and help pregnant women to safeguard themselves against the new variant that has been declared as the “variant of concern” by the World Health Organization (WHO).
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Amid the Omicron scare, pregnant women will have to strengthen their immunity and stay healthy as they are more vulnerable during the third wave. We got Dr Payal Narang, Consultant Obstetrician & Gynaecologist, Motherhood Hospital Lullanagar to elaborate on the myths and facts to help pregnant women take enough measures to stay safe.
Myth 1: Pregnant women can never get infected with Covid-19
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Fact: This statement is completely false. In fact, a woman’s immunity takes a hit during pregnancy and she is prone to bacterial and viral infections. Just like the other vulnerable populations like children and senior citizens, pregnant women can also be detected with Covid-19 infection. Moreover, if any pregnant woman has medical conditions like asthma, gestational diabetes and hypertension, then they need to be more cautious.
Myth 2: Covid-19 can invite pregnancy complications
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Fact: Currently, there is no study or data to validate the fact that Covid leads to serious pregnancy complications. The components present in the vaccine don’t harm the baby in any manner. Neither the virus nor vaccine components cross the placenta, so the baby is safe.
Pregnant women can give birth to healthy and uninfected babies even if they are infected. The virus cannot be passed on through breast milk. So, pregnant women should not fret even if they exhibit the symptoms of Covid-19. Get proper treatment and lead a healthy lifestyle.
Myth 3: Those with a high-risk pregnancy shouldn’t get vaccinated against Covid-19
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Fact: This is not true! If you are pregnant and have various complications then it is the need of the hour for you to get vaccinated against Covid-19. The vaccine is safe, efficacious and helps in creating antibodies that can fight the virus.
Not only this, even breastfeeding mothers need to get vaccinated as the antibodies from the vaccine will be passed through your milk, which can help your baby fight off the virus.
Myth 4: Previously infected people are naturally immune to covid during pregnancy
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Fact: It is still not clear how long the antibodies last. Thus, it is important for a pregnant woman to get vaccinated and have a healthy pregnancy. Also, one can get re-infected with the virus, so be careful!
Myth 5: It’s okay to not wear a mask after getting jabbed
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Fact: Pregnant women who are vaccinated should continue to follow the Covid protocol of masking, social distancing and hand sanitizing. Do not venture out without wearing a mask as you still have chances of getting infected with the virus.
Myth 6: The Covid vaccine infects pregnant women
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Fact: The COVID-19 vaccine does not contain the SARS-Co-2 virus and will not cause infection. Instead, you will develop antibodies through the vaccine that will help you to fight the infection.
Lead Image Credit: Angad Bedi and Soha Ali Khan, Instagram
