COVID Treatment during Pregnancy

Research shows that pregnant and recently pregnant people are at higher risk for a serious case of COVID-19 compared with non-pregnant people. Those with symptoms are more likely than non-pregnant people to need intensive care or a ventilator and to die from the disease. Pregnant people with other risk factors, like obesity or diabetes, are at even greater risk. These risks can affect the developing baby, including preterm birth. While this information may be unsettling, there are some important things pregnant people can do.

Step 1: Get vaccinated. COVID vaccines during pregnancy are safe and effective. It decreases the risks and benefits you, your baby, other members of your family, and your community.

Step 2: Take steps to avoid becoming infected with COVID. Avoid crowds and wear a mask in public.

Step 3: If you have received a positive COVID test result or you are experiencing symptoms of COVID, call your OB/GYN. They may have access to specialized medications that can keep the illness from getting worse.

By following these steps, you greatly decrease the likelihood COVID will have a negative impact on your pregnancy.

Kimberley Sampson, MD, is the chair of the Department of OB/GYN at Southwestern Vermont Medical Center, part of Southwestern Vermont Health Care, in Bennington.