The final days of pregnancy are filled with excitement, anticipation, and a touch of anxiety. But since the outbreak of COVID-19, expectant mothers have had to take extra steps to stay healthy and protect their babies. The link between pregnancy and COVID 19 has been studied worldwide, and experts agree that pregnant women need special care to minimize infection risks.
As your due date approaches, safety becomes even more important. Here’s a complete guide on how to keep yourself and your baby safe during your last days of pregnancy amid the ongoing coronavirus risk.
1. Get Vaccinated and Stay Updated on Boosters
Vaccination remains the most effective protection against severe illness caused by COVID-19. Studies have confirmed that vaccines are safe during pregnancy and can even pass antibodies to your baby through the placenta. This means your newborn gets early protection too.
If you haven’t received your COVID-19 vaccine or booster, now is the time to discuss it with your obstetrician. Staying up to date with vaccines is one of the most reliable ways to manage pregnancy and COVID 19 safely.
2. Limit Social Contacts and Non-Essential Outings
In the final days of pregnancy, it’s best to limit unnecessary interactions. Avoid crowded places, public gatherings, and non-essential travel. Even though restrictions have eased in most places, the virus can still spread easily in close-contact settings.
Ask friends and family to visit virtually or postpone in-person meetings until after you’ve delivered and recovered. Keeping your social circle small will significantly reduce your exposure risk.
3. Maintain Strict Hygiene Practices
One of the simplest yet most powerful ways to stay safe is by maintaining good hygiene. Carry a sanitizer containing at least 60% alcohol whenever you step out.
Clean and disinfect high-touch surfaces in your home, such as doorknobs, phones, switches, and countertops. If you receive packages or groceries, wipe them before storage. These small habits go a long way in protecting both you and your baby from infections related to pregnancy and COVID 19.
4. Keep Your Home Clean and Ventilated
Your home should be your safest environment during this phase. Ensure proper ventilation by opening windows to allow fresh air and sunlight in. Sunlight not only kills germs but also boosts your vitamin D levels, which are essential for immunity.
Declutter your living space to create a calm, organized area for yourself and your baby. Store all baby items – bottles, clothes, toys, and bedding – in clean, covered spaces. A fresh, hygienic environment promotes physical and mental well-being.
5. Stay Connected with Your Doctor
During these times, continuous medical supervision is essential. Many clinics now offer virtual consultations, making it easy to discuss your concerns without visiting in person unless necessary.
Before your due date, talk to your healthcare provider about hospital safety measures for pregnancy and COVID 19. Ask about visitor restrictions, delivery room procedures, and postpartum care. Understanding these details ahead of time can ease anxiety and help you feel more confident.
6. Focus on Immunity-Boosting Nutrition
Your immune system needs extra support in the last trimester. Include nutrient-rich foods such as citrus fruits, spinach, almonds, eggs, yogurt, and lentils in your daily meals. These foods are packed with vitamins C, D, and zinc – essential for fighting infections.
Drink plenty of water and avoid processed foods. Continue taking prenatal vitamins prescribed by your doctor. A healthy, well-nourished body is better equipped to handle the challenges of pregnancy and COVID 19.
7. Prepare a COVID-Safe Hospital Bag
Packing your hospital bag early can reduce last-minute stress. Along with the usual delivery items, include:
>N95 or surgical masks
> Hand sanitizer
> Disinfectant wipes
> Personal thermometer
> Extra gloves
> A copy of your vaccination record
Keep everything neatly packed and ready by the 36th week. Label your belongings clearly to avoid confusion during admission. A well-prepared hospital bag ensures you can focus on your delivery with peace of mind.
8. Manage Stress and Anxiety
The combination of pregnancy hormones and pandemic-related fears can lead to anxiety. Try meditation, gentle yoga, or deep breathing exercises. Listening to soft music, journaling, or talking to loved ones can also help.
Your mental health directly impacts your physical well-being and your baby’s development. Staying calm, positive, and emotionally balanced is one of the best ways to navigate pregnancy and COVID 19 safely.
9. Follow Safety Protocols During Delivery
Before heading to the hospital, confirm your hospital’s COVID-19 procedures. Most facilities conduct screening or rapid tests for all incoming patients. Always wear a mask, maintain distance, and sanitize regularly.
If your partner or support person is accompanying you, ensure they also follow the same precautions. Hospitals have strict infection control guidelines to ensure your safety, but being cautious personally adds an extra layer of protection.
10. Continue Precautions After Delivery
After childbirth, your body is still recovering, and your immune system remains slightly weakened. Limit visitors for a few weeks and encourage video calls instead. Ask anyone who must visit to wear a mask and sanitize before holding the baby.
If you are breastfeeding, continue maintaining hygiene. Wash your hands before and after feeding and wear a mask during close contact. Research indicates that breast milk does not transmit COVID-19 and provides vital antibodies to your newborn.
Even after delivery, staying careful ensures that pregnancy and COVID 19 risks remain low for you and your baby.
Final Thoughts
The last days of pregnancy are a delicate blend of excitement and caution. While COVID-19 has changed the way expectant mothers prepare for childbirth, it has also reminded us of the importance of health and awareness.
