Imagine if your daughter, or sister, or spouse was 36 weeks pregnant amid a viral crisis that has not yet peaked in Canada. It should be a time of blissful anticipation instead of aching chronic worry about contracting COVID-19.
My nephew’s wife is organized, detailed, thorough, and she has had three bags packed for several weeks. The crib and stroller are outfitted in the event that her newborn arrives early. What about other would-be mothers who can’t shop right now? Online shopping is a flurry, but at some point, even those employees may need to stay home and flatten the curve.
“I’ve been avoiding all contact with everyone. I’m very anxious about my next appointment in a crowded doctor’s office. I will be 36 weeks next Wednesday. I’m thinking of staying in the car until I’m called. It’s supposed to be the first cervical check. Sitting in the waiting room is a scary thoughtas I worry about exposure to the virus. I’m also having a strep test. If I test positive, I’ll be given a prescription for antibiotics.” She is considering skipping her 37, 38, 39-week check-up altogether. Why chance it?
ANXIOUS
“On the advice of my OB's office and my family doctor, we started self-isolation on Friday March 13 (this is because I have asthma, on top of being 35 weeks pregnant.) I am feeling both anxious and grateful, but am trying to stay calm to protect us both from stress (going for walks every day, trying to limit exposure to the news except for a few trusted sources). We still do not know the effects of COVID-19 on fetuses, pregnant women and newborns. The data is promising, but the sample size is too small. So far, it appears as though there is no transmission to the fetus, which is good, but there have been cases of COVID+ mothers transmitting to their newborns. The lack of data is making me very uneasy.
Because I have asthma, COVID-19, would affect me more than most. In New York ventilators are being reused due to shortages.
Will the hospital be overrun when they need to deliver? Will they be sufficiently isolated from the sick, especially if there are any complications, and they have to stay in the hospital longer than a few days?
“There are reports from the US that COVID+ mothers and those with symptoms are being separated from their newborns at birth - this is a nightmare scenario for me. Similarly, many places are only allowing one support person at the birth, or none at all (I really want my husband by my side). The hospital where I will give birth is one of two English hospitals at the epicenter of coronavirus treatment.”
People seem to be hoarding diapers, wipes, and formula - not sure how we are going to get these if they run out. We’ve talked about buying cloth diapers and using plain old soap and water. It might come to that. My husband will drive me, and we’ll take the road less traveled. We’ll maintain a two-metre distance, wear latex gloves and avoid touching the elevator buttons.
I'm sad that our baby might not get to meet anyone other than the two of us in person for the first few months, and vice-versa. It’s likely we will not get outside in the early weeks..
GRATEFUL
I worked with a doula, a decision I’m very happy I undertook, which will allow me to stay at home until I’m 5-6 cm dilated. I Know the emergency signs that indicate something is wrong.
Our provincial government acted relatively quickly and effectively, which will hopefully give us all a fighting chance. My husband and I can continue to work from home until our official maternity/paternity leave, meaning that we are still earning income while also limiting our exposure. It also keeps us busy.
Our friends and families have been picking up/dropping off everything that we need in order to be comfortable, but are increasing their risk of exposure in the process.
We are nearing the end of the pregnancy, and the nursery is finished, and all essentials are purchased
We had a baby shower. That won’t happen for others right now.
We have had the luxury of spending time together as a couple before the baby arrives, and our dog has never been happier as we are both home all day.
Not having to commute has done wonders for my back and joint pain.
We are very lucky for many reasons, but are still mourning a 'normal' experience if that makes sense.”
No apocalyptic circumstances can take away the most important ingredient. Love. This baby will be cherished, breast-fed, adored by a dog and two expectant young parents. They will be bolstered by parents and in-laws and great aunts and cousins. Perhaps no pink storks staked into the ground, or deliveries of floral arrangements or tinfoil balloons, but we will find new ways to shower our affection from afar and make a place for this new little human being.