Many expectant moms and family members have questions about delivering their baby during the COVID-19 pandemic. In an episode of our Health Works Here podcast recorded in April 2020, Avery Fisher, a certified nurse-midwife with AFA OB/GYN and Emerson Hospital, spoke about the impacts of the COVID-19 outbreak on expectant mothers and the childbirth process. Continue reading for Avery's answers to frequently asked questions from expectant mothers.
Please note: Information on how COVID-19 impacts families can change rapidly as more data is gathered and can impact the accuracy of this resource. Please check with your physician for the most up-to-date information.
During Pregnancy
Are pregnant people at a higher risk to contract COVID-19?
Preliminary data shows that there is not an increased risk of contraction by pregnant people. However, some evidence now suggests that if a pregnant women acquires COVID-19 and is symptomatic, she is at increased risk of more severe illness than a nonpregnant women.
Can I tour the birthing center or sign up for a childbirth class?
All of Emerson’s in-person tours have been suspended for the time being. However, a virtual tour of our Clough Birthing Center is available. A limited amount of in-person and online classes have been re-instated. Visit EmersonWellness.org to find upcoming childbirth classes.
If a mother is diagnosed with COVID-19 during pregnancy is there a risk to the baby?
Preliminary evidence shows that in a small number of cases COVID-19 can be transmitted from mother to baby at the time of birth.
How should parents cope during this anxious time?
Please reach out to your OB office — we are here to help. Emerson’s Clough Birth Center can be reached by calling 978-287-3310.
While In Labor
Are patients and visitors being screened for COVID-19?
All patients and support persons are screened for symptoms and tested on admission to the birthing center. All outpatients are also being screened for symptoms.
How is the birthing center protecting patients and babies during this outbreak?
In addition to our standard sanitation and screening procedures, Emerson has instituted negative pressure rooms. There is now both a designated negative pressure delivery room and patient room at our birthing center. A negative pressure room is a technique used to prevent the spread of COVID-19 from room to room. These negative pressure rooms will be used for patients with suspected or known COVID-19 diagnosis.
After Delivery
Are visitors allowed at the hospital?
Yes, visitors are allowed at the hospital. However, there are certain requirements in place for the safety of our patients and staff. Please review our visitor policy page to stay up-to-date with current information. Inpatient mother/baby unit visitation hours are from 12-2 p.m. and 4-8 p.m. daily. Birth partners are considered a "support person" and are allowed unrestricted access to the patient through the stay.
What precautions should be taken when mom and baby come home?
Each family is advised to practice strict social distancing. Do not have family and friends visit your home and don’t go to visit their homes. Visits should be outdoors only and people should remain at least six feet away per standard social distancing practices.
Listen to the Podcast
The Labor & Delivery Experience in the Time of COVID-19: A Podcast for Pregnant Moms and Partners
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Additional Resources
