Pregnancy is a special time full of excitement and anticipation. But for expectant mothers facing giving birth during the COVID-19 pandemic, fear, anxiety and uncertainty are clouding this otherwise happy time. The maternity staff at Beverly Hospital know that many expecting moms and their partners have a specific birthing experience in mind and have imagined what it will be like to bring their newborn baby home. During this unprecedented time, many expecting moms and partners wonder how this will affect their birthing experience and their newborn baby.
The COVID-19 pandemic is temporarily changing the way Beverly Hospital functions and we want you to be aware of how these changes may change your experience at the hospital. Please keep in mind that we have taken these precautions to keep our patients, staff and communities safe and healthy and to reduce the possible spread of COVID-19.
At this time, it appears that a COVID-19 infection is not severe in most pregnant women, although this is based on limited information. COVID-19 also does not seem to harm unborn babies, although this is also based on very limited information. However, if you are severely ill or have difficulty breathing, get medical attention immediately. If you have respiratory illness symptoms such as cough, fever or shortness of breath, call your health care provider. They will screen you for possible symptoms of COVID-19 and help you with next steps if you meet criteria for testing.
Pregnant women should follow the same health advice recommended to the community. It’s also very important to follow public health guidelines for social distancing (stay at least six feet away from each other), avoid being in large groups of people, and postpone nonessential appointments, errands and travel. By taking these measures, you’re helping to keep yourself and your family, friends, and community safe from possible exposure to COVID-19.
During the pandemic, Beverly Hospital has limited the number of visitors in our Labor and Delivery rooms to one support partner during labor through discharge from the hospital. To ensure a healthy and safe environment for patients and staff during the COVID-19 pandemic, no visitors are allowed except for this support partner.
All of us at Beverly Hospital are concerned about your health, the health of your baby and the health of your entire family. We are making decisions with the safety of our mothers and babies as our first and main priority. We are well-prepared to care for you and your baby and we are planning for all possible scenarios.
