Giving birth is both an exciting and nervous time for mums. If you are giving birth during the global pandemic, understandably you may be feeling even more nervous and anxious. These feelings are completely normal and there are measures in place to help you and your baby stay safe.
If you are feeling stressed and anxious you might want to incorporate some yoga relaxation techniques to help minimise your stress and anxiety.
Can my birth partner stay if I am being induced?
The thought of being alone during childbirth can heighten your nerves and make you feel more worried. You should be able to have one birth partner with you during your induction as long as this is carried out in a single room provided they do not have any covid symptoms. However if the induction takes place on the main ward, it is likely that your birth partner may not be able to stay due to social distancing measures which are in place.
Please note that if your birth partner is not able to stay during your induction, this does not mean that they are not going to be able to stay with you during labour and the birth. During active labour your birth partner will be invited to support you.
Will I have to give birth by myself?
Having a birth partner is important for your safety and well-being during labour and birth.
During active labour, you will not be alone. You will be able to have one birth partner during active labour. Your birth partner will need to wear a mask at all times in the hospital and follow the procedures in place to ensure the safety of other women, babies and staff.
If your birth partner has any symptoms of coronavirus or has recently tested positive, they are not able to go in the maternity suite and they must self-isolate. Have a backup birth partner in case this happens.
What happens if I test positive for Coronavirus?
If you have symptoms or test positive for coronavirus, you will be advised to give birth in a unit led by a doctor. This would be the safest place for you and your baby, as the doctor will be able to look after you closely. You will be with other women who have coronavirus within the maternity unit.
You are likely to see midwives and the maternity team wearing aprons, masks and eye protection. This is to keep you and your baby safe as well as the staff. This will help stop the spread of infection.
Will my baby be tested for coronavirus?
If you have confirmed or suspected coronavirus when the baby is born, doctors who specialise in the care of new-born babies (neonatal doctors) will examine your baby and they will be able to advise you further on what actions need to be taken.
What will happen after the birth?
After your baby is born you should be able to have skin-to-skin contact unless your baby is unwell and needs care in the neonatal unit. There is no evidence that coronavirus can be passed on to your baby through breastfeeding. Therefore if you would like to breastfeed your child, having cornovarius should not determine whether you do or not.
As well as enjoying this time with your newborn baby, it’s important to look after your body post pregnancy. Here are some tips for helping you to keep healthy after giving birth.
Remember you are not alone and many women will be in the same situation as you. It is completely normal to feel the way you do. A good way of overcoming these fears is to speak with other women who are also pregnant or who have just experienced childbirth during this pandemic. You can join the Bumpies To Baby group where you will find advice, experiences and tips.
