Autumn Precautions for Pregnant Women During the Pandemic

Protection from Covid-19 infection, which has affected the entire world, takes on particular importance during pregnancy. This is because changes in the immune system during pregnancy make pregnant women more susceptible to viral respiratory infections, and Covid-19 infection may take a more severe course. With the arrival of autumn, in addition to Covid-19, other upper respiratory tract infections transmitted through droplets such as common cold, influenza, pharyngitis, tonsillitis and sinusitis are frequently seen, making the process even more difficult. Influenza viruses cause high fever, headache and widespread body aches, and when these 2 infections occur simultaneously, more severe conditions can develop. Dr. Jale Dal Ağca, Obstetrician and Gynaecologist at Acıbadem Kozyatağı Hospital, warns that high fever, which is one of the symptoms of Covid-19, can negatively affect the baby during pregnancy, stating, "Since the baby in the mother's womb has all vital organs and tissues completed especially in the first 3 months, protecting against infections during this period takes on particular importance. In addition, pregnant women with chronic diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, asthma and allergies have increased susceptibility to Covid-19 and other viral infections during seasonal transitions such as autumn. Therefore, control of existing chronic diseases becomes more important during this period." So, what precautions should pregnant women take to get through autumn healthily? Dr. Jale Dal Ağca, Obstetrician and Gynaecologist at Acıbadem Kozyatağı Hospital, explained the rules that should be observed against Covid-19 during pregnancy and provided important recommendations and warnings.

Pay attention to daily temperature fluctuations!

Excessive sweating and chilling negatively affect the immune system. For this reason, it is very important to dress considering daily temperature changes. In autumn, prefer non-synthetic, cotton clothing suitable for temperature fluctuations.  

Never forget these 5 rules!

Socializing during pregnancy has a positive effect on our psychology. However, never forget these 5 rules while socializing: Do not enter crowded places. Wear a mask, and ensure that people you come into contact with wear masks. Never violate the 1.5-metre social distance rule. Avoid kissing and handshaking. Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds after touching surfaces, and if this is not possible in your environment, use disinfectant.

Do not lose sleep

Dr. Jale Dal Ağca, Obstetrician and Gynaecologist, notes that a healthy sleep pattern supports the immune system, saying: "To build strong resistance, do not lose sleep, make sure to sleep at least 7-8 hours per day. In the last 3 months, sleep quality may decline due to fetal growth. Therefore, the quality of mattress and pillow becomes very important during this period. You can benefit from support products for the lower back, back and legs to improve sleep quality."

Get the flu vaccine for sure!

"One of the vaccines you can safely get during pregnancy is the flu vaccine. Be sure to get your flu vaccine," says Dr. Jale Dal Ağca, explaining the reason as follows: "Especially during the Covid-19 pandemic, since the presence of both diseases together can increase the risk of developing a severe condition, do not neglect to get the flu vaccine. The flu vaccine will protect both you and your baby from influenza for the first 6 months after birth."

Consume herbal teas, but…

To strengthen your immune system, you can consume herbal teas that do not negatively affect your baby's health. On the condition that you do not exceed 2 cups per day; consuming ginger, linden, rosehip or thyme tea will support your immune system. Ginger also provides relief for nausea and vomiting complaints during pregnancy. However, be careful! Teas made from plants such as anise, fenugreek, nettle, fennel, liquorice root, raspberry leaf, rosemary, sage and vervain can trigger uterine contractions when consumed excessively and may cause miscarriage or premature birth.

Take nutritional supplements if your doctor recommends them

If you feel the need, you can use medications or nutritional supplements that strengthen the immune system after consulting your doctor. Supplements containing vitamin C and D as well as Omega-3, which your doctor will recommend, will contribute to strengthening your body. Anaemia problems that may develop during pregnancy can also be prevented with iron-B12-folic acid supplements recommended by your doctor.

Healthy and balanced nutrition is essential!

Dr. Jale Dal Ağca, warning that healthy and balanced nutrition is very important for a strong immune system, lists her recommendations as follows: "Avoid foods high in carbohydrates, pay attention to your weight gain. Make sure to consume fresh and seasonal vegetables and fruits. Do not forget that eating calcium-rich foods improves pregnancy quality. Home-made yogurt, cheese, milk and kefir are indispensable sources of calcium. Do not omit foods high in protein and low in sugar from your table."

Walk for 30 minutes every day

Regular walking makes our bodies more resistant to infections by improving respiratory fitness. To increase your body's immunity, move actively and make a habit of walking at a brisk pace for 30 minutes every day. Try to do this in a calmer environment with less risk of virus transmission, preferably outdoors.

Do not stay in unventilated spaces

Do not spend long periods in unventilated and enclosed spaces. Due to virus particles released into the air, coronavirus has an increased risk of airborne transmission in enclosed spaces. Virus particles released from sneezing, coughing and loud speaking can remain suspended in the air for 20 minutes to 3 hours in crowded areas or poorly ventilated enclosed spaces. Research conducted in England has shown that 10 litres of clean air per person per second must be provided in enclosed spaces. During pandemic times, this situation became even more important. If you provide adequate amounts of clean air from the outside to the inside, even if there is someone carrying the virus in the space, you will have diluted the infectious material in the space. This reduces the risk of others catching the disease. For this reason, if possible, ventilate your space every 1-2 hours until all the air inside has been exchanged.

Drink plenty of water

In respiratory tract infections, virus sticks more easily to a dry nose and throat. As a result, the risk of infection developing and worsening in the lungs increases. Drinking plenty of water moistens the respiratory tract and reduces the risk of lung infection. Therefore, not only in summer but in all seasons of the year, make it a habit to drink at least 2-3 litres of water per day.