COVID19 and pregnancy

I am pregnant – how do I stay safe?

There is no evidence that pregnant women are more likely to get seriously ill from coronavirus but pregnant women have been included in the list of people at moderate risk (clinically vulnerable) as a precaution. The government guidance for the clinically vulnerable remains in place and you should ensure you continue to follow the latest government guidance.

Pregnant women should follow the latest government guidance on staying alert and safe (social distancing) and avoid anyone who has symptoms suggestive of coronavirus. If you are in your third trimester (more than 28 weeks’ pregnant) you should be particularly attentive to social distancing.

Key advice for pregnant women during the pandemic:

• Follow the guidance on staying alert and safe (social distancing) and staying safe outside the home including appropriate use of face coverings for the general public and clinically vulnerable people, including pregnant women
• Keep mobile and hydrated to reduce the risk of blood clots in pregnancy
• Stay active with regular exercise, a healthy balanced diet, and folic acid and vitamin D supplementation to help support a healthy pregnancy
• Attend all of your pregnancy scans and antenatal appointments unless you are advised not to
• Contact your maternity team if you have concerns about the wellbeing of yourself or your unborn baby

More information on pregnancy and coronavirus is available on the NHS website and The Royal College of Obstetricians & Gynaecologists (RCOG). This information is updated regularly.

There are lots of things you can do to help keep yourself and your baby safe. Please seek advice and support from your midwife if you are feeling worried.