maternity- baby

COVID-19 and Pregnancy @ SLMHC

The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in many changes for daily life around the world and has affected some of what we do here at Sioux Lookout Meno Ya Win Health Centre. Here are some Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about our Integrated Pregnancy Program and maternity services here.

What is COVID-19 and How Does it Spread?

COVID-19 is a new virus that causes an illness similar to the flu or a cold. Most people will have cold symptoms (typically fever or cough), but people with other health problems are at higher risk of getting quite sick or developing severe lung problems.

Like the flu, COVID-19 spreads mostly by contact with someone who is infected or contact with objects they recently touched or sneezed or coughed on.

How do I avoid getting COVID-19?

  • Use hand hygiene to protect you and your baby: wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, or use alcohol-based hand sanitizer
  • Avoid touching your face
  • Maintain physical distancing (a minimum of 6′ or 2 metres from others) when out in public
  • Wear a face mask when unable to maintain physical distancing.
  • Avoid unnecessary visitors in your home.
  • Stay home as much as possible, except for important medical appointments and limited trips to the store for essentials

How are my appointments affected?

Appointments in pregnancy are important, and a phone call or telehealth may be an option i fyou are ill. If you have concerns about your pregnancy please contact the clinic.

When you go to the clinic or the hospital, wash your hands regularly when you touch objects, avoid touching your face with your hands and try to stay at least 2 meters or 6 feet away from other people in the waiting area. You should also wash your hands when you leave.

If you are sick with a cough or fever and you are booked for a regular visit, contact the IPP to check if any appointment adjustments are necessary.

How do I contact the Integrated Pregnancy Program (IPP)?

Integrated Prenatal Program (IPP) phone: 807-737-2877 ext 4503, or call 807-737-3030 and ask for the Prenatal Clinic

Can I breastfeed if I have COVID-19?

Through studies we’ve seen, breastmilk isn’t known to transmit COVID-19. We recommend breastfeeding when possible. It has many health benefits and offers the most protection against infection and illness throughout infancy and childhood. To protect yourself and your baby, you should continue to follow recommended individual public health measures, such as:

  • wearing a mask
  • improving ventilation
  • cleaning your hands

Evidence suggests that people who have received an mRNA COVID-19 vaccine have antibodies in their breastmilk that could help protect the baby once they are born. 

Please use the following link to find more up to date information as it becomes available: https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/diseases/2019-novel-coronavirus-infection/prevention-risks/pregnancy-childbirth-newborn.html

Resources

themothersprogram.ca

www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/diseases/2019-novel-coronavirus-infection.html

www.slfnha.com/covid19

www.obgyn.utoronto.ca/news/pandemic-pregnancy-guide-2020

Facebook: www.facebook.com/groups/SLFNHA.CRRT/

Instagram: @pandemicpregnancyguide

Twitter: @pandemicPreg