International Resources
This is collection of published evidence based resources from around the world and NOT meant to replace any information provided by your local maternity care provider or hospital.
There is a LOT of information on the web right now and you could spend hours reading all things pregnancy and COVID-19 related. Please only keep reading if this information will ease some of your anxiety and not increase it! Always talk to your care provider about any questions or concerns you have about your personal situation and the changing situation at your chosen place of birth.
World Health Organization (WHO) Q&A on COVID-19, pregnancy, childbirth and breastfeeding
“Research is currently underway to understand the impacts of COVID 19 infection on pregnant women. Data are limited, but at present there is no evidence that they are at higher risk of severe illness than the general population.”
“Women with {a confirmed case of} COVID-19 can breastfeed if they wish to do so. They should: Practice respiratory hygiene during feeding, wearing a mask where available; Wash hands before and after touching the baby; Routinely clean and disinfect surfaces they have touched.”
Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists Coronavirus infection and pregnancy
“Pregnant woman were placed in a vulnerable group by the Chief Medical Officer on 16th March. This means you have been advised to reduce social contact through social distancing measures.”
“Based on the evidence we have so far, pregnant women are still no more likely to contract coronavirus than the general population. What we do know is that pregnancy in a small proportion of women can alter how your body handles severe viral infections. This is something that midwives and obstetricians have known for many years and are used to dealing with. As yet, there is no evidence that pregnant women who get coronavirus are more at risk of serious complications than any other healthy individuals.”
Centers for disease Control and prevention (CDC) Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Information about Coronavirus Disease 2019
“Pregnant women should do the same things as the general public to avoid infection. You can help stop the spread of COVID-19 by taking these actions: Cover your cough (using your elbow is a good technique) Avoid people who are sickClean your hands often using soap and water or alcohol-based hand sanitizer.”
“No infants born to mothers with COVID-19 have tested positive for the COVID-19 virus. In these cases, which are a small number, the virus was not found in samples of amniotic fluid or breastmilk.”
American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) Novel Coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) practise advisory
“The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) is closely monitoring the COVID-19 pandemic.”
“At this time, very little is known about COVID-19, particularly related to its effect on pregnant women and infants, and there currently are no recommendations specific to pregnant women regarding the evaluation or management of COVID-19.”
Society for Maternal Fetal Medicine
“SMFM is closely monitoring the outbreak of a respiratory illness caused by a novel coronavirus (COVID-19).We are compiling resources to support the work of OB care providers and their patients.”
Coronavirus COVID-19 | Evidence Based Birth® Resource Page
“At Evidence Based Birth®, we are continually monitoring the situation and our research team is examining the best available resources. We will keep this page updated with relevant information for both pregnant parents and birth professionals.”
