New parents: Common pandemic questions answered
There’s a lot of things to understand as this pandemic continues, here’s some commonly asked questions by new parents answered
It’s great news that lockdown restrictions are set to be eased this summer, however we are still living in a pandemic and it’s important to continue to ensure we all protect ourselves from coronavirus.
For new parents, it can be a worrying time with coronavirus still around, so we help answer some of the most common questions.
What if I contract Covid when I have a newborn?
The Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RCOG) offers advice for new mothers if they are affected by coronavirus and even what to do about breastfeeding should you contract the virus.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) also offers support to new mothers should they contract coronavirus.
Can I breastfeed my baby if I have or suspect I have coronavirus?
The short answer is yes. There’s no evidence to say breast milk can carry or pass coronavirus. The well-known benefits of breastfeeding outweigh any potential risks of transmission of coronavirus through breastmilk.
It is the close contact of breastfeeding between you and your baby that is the concern should you have or suspect you have coronavirus. If you do suspect you might have the virus, do talk to one of your healthcare professionals.
What happens with early routine screening appointments?
Newborn screening appointments will take place as normal unless you, your child or someone you live with has symptoms of coronavirus.
If you have symptoms, contact your GP or Health Visitor to postpone appointments until your isolation has ended.
What happens currently with routine vaccinations?
As with screening appointments, routine vaccinations for babies and pre-school children take place as normal unless you, your child or someone you live with has symptoms of coronavirus.
If you have symptoms, contact your GP or Health Visitor to postpone appointments until your isolation has ended.
Is it safe to have the COVID-19 vaccine if I’m breastfeeding?
Whether you’re planning a pregnancy, have just given birth, or are currently breastfeeding, you should be offered the COVID-19 vaccine with everyone else.
The latest advice, issued by the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) suggests that pregnant women should be offered the vaccine at the same time as the rest of the population, based on their age and clinical risk group.
If you have concerns about whether to have the vaccine, talk to your doctor or another healthcare professional.