The Covid-19 pandemic has forced the whole world to adapt to new changes and in such a short period of time. From companies having to adapt to new working styles, business moving from modern to traditional as well as our healthcare system having to implement new regulations and practices to stop the spread of Covid-19.
For some healthcare providers, this includes implementing very strict regulations that may affect the an expecting mother-to-be. Around the world, we hear of new mothers sharing their birth stories during this pandemic and this includes experiences that they would never have thought of including having to give birth without their partner, to reducing the risk of an infection.
While hospitals around the world have implemented its own set of rules, the ultimate question is, how do you stay positive during these changing times especially if you were suddenly told that your partner will not be able to be in the labour ward with you?
Well, here we share some important tips about how women can cope with pregnancy during the pandemic.
Positive Thoughts During The Labour Period
The first thing to do is identify what our concerns are. It is natural for mothers-to-be to worry but what more when she is going into labour. Concerns can range from the duration of the labour to pain management (managing the contractions) to safety for herself and baby.
Having those concerns addressed realistically by talking to a trained healthcare provider, find out what options are available, what to expect and how or what she can do before going into labour will reassure her and give her confidence.
Confidence empowers and that will in turn give rise to more positive thoughts. It is, however, important that her concerns are addressed to realistically in line with these changing times.
Is It Possible To Implement Knowledge From Birth Classes Even When Experiencing Labour Alone?
Certainly! While it is good to have a partner when in labour, in these hallenging times, it may not be always possible for various reasons.
So, birth classes course can be adapted to put more emphasis on empowering the woman – discus birth wishes with your healthcare provider and work out how the healthcare provider team can assist throughout labour.
When Woman In Labour Gets Stressed, How To Focus On Positive Side Of Giving Birth?
Fear always increases stress. The important thing is to realise what biggest concerns about labour are and address these concerns prior to labour.
For example, if the main concern is managing the contractions and we are unsure if we wants pain relief, we should first have a discussion with our spouse and then with the doctor. We can discuss with our doctor and plan out how we will approach pain management.
This way, our doctor and the nursing team will be aware of our preference and will be able to assist accordingly.
Husband’s Role While Wife/Partner Is In Labour
Reassurance from her spouse and having realistic expectations are very helpful. Husbands can also assist by being calm and patient.
They can discuss the possibility of the husband being there virtually, at least in the early stages of labour.
Role And Support Of Nurses And Hospital Staff For The Pregnant Woman
The teamwork and trust between the woman and the healthcare providers are important.
The different healthcare providers have different roles and effective communication is the key for support.
It will be helpful to have a short meeting with the staff prior to labour to get to know each other better.
Have a birth wish list to remind yourself and the team.
Last, stay calm!
Leave a Reply