States reassure pregnant women

Monday 30 March 2020

Some mums-to-be have expressed their concern about giving birth alone on social media over the weekend, as the number of confirmed corona virus cases continues to rise in Guernsey.

The States have moved to reassure those heavily pregnant women, confirming one birth partner will be permitted per labouring woman, at this time.

But, some mothers-to-be in Guernsey, as well as across the UK, are still concerned about the support that will be available for them as the pandemic continues to take a hold on the world, and our Bailiwick. A national petition has been set up, which aims to protect the right to have a birth partner despite the corona virus crisis as some mums fear that allowance may be removed as the number of confirmed corona virus cases rises further.

Restrictions have already been put in place in the island's Princess Elizabeth Hospital to prevent the spread of covid-19; meaning no children or partners will be able to accompany pregnant women to their appointments, including scans, and each new mum will only be allowed one postnatal visitor to the ward.

Pictured: The Princess Elizabeth Hospital.

All group sessions have also been cancelled, in line with lockdown measures.

Although there is currently no evidence to suggest pregnant women are more likely to catch or become seriously ill with corona virus, those over 28 weeks gestation are being advised to stay at home until after they have given birth - only leaving the house for medical appointments.

Any pregnant women with significant heart disease, whether it be congenital or acquired, are considered 'extremely vulnerable' and should minimise all non-essential contact with other people - including those in their household.

As long as they are feeling well, all mums-to-be should attend their medical appointments as normal. However, if they are experiencing respiratory symptoms or are in self isolation for other reasons, they should contact their midwife to rearrange. If the maternity assistance is urgent, they should call ahead and explain their situation, before going to the appointment.

Pictured: There is no evidence to suggest pregnant women are more at risk.

If a pregnant woman is in self isolation when she goes into labour, she should contact the maternity unit for advice before heading to the hospital. Anyone with mild symptoms will be encouraged to remain at home during early labour, in line with standard practice.

Wherever possible, the new mother and baby will not be separated any more than usual, even if the mother tests positive for covid-19, and current evidence still supports breastfeeding, as benefits outweigh potential risks.

If the pregnancy and birth are both straightforward, mothers and their babies will be encouraged to leave the hospital as soon as it is safe for them to do so. Postnatal support will then be given outside the hospital setting.

At the moment, there is no data to suggest a pregnant woman can pass corona virus on to her developing child, and the majority of people with the virus will only experience mild or moderate cold and flu symptoms.

Further advice for pregnant women in Guernsey and mums who have recently given birth is available here.