Navigating Flu Season While Pregnant
The flu always spells trouble during the colder months of the year. This year, the flu has been notoriously vicious, with high numbers of hospitalizations, as reported in a recent New York Times article. As an expectant mother, how do you navigate flu season without holing up for the duration?
Prevention is the best medicine.
Should you get a flu shot while pregnant? Always consult your Ob/Gyn before making any medical decision during pregnancy, but be aware that the Center for Disease Control and Prevention hails the flu shot as the safest, best way to protect yourself and your unborn baby from the flu. In fact, they note that the protection the flu shot provides in utero continues for several months after birth.
Keep things clean.
Proper hand-washing aside, flu season is an excellent time of year to take a few extra steps toward careful hygiene. If you are away from the sink and out in public, it might be a good idea to keep a small container of hand sanitizer in your bag. At work, consider a package of disinfectant wipes for your desk, and offer to share, especially with your sniffling, sneezing co-workers. Keeping common areas free of germs helps everyone stay well!
Self-care to stay strong.
One of the most significant benefits of self-care is that it helps us effectively deal with stress. Stress, in turn, has been proven to weaken our immune systems, making us more susceptible to seasonal flu and other illnesses. Follow your doctor-recommended plan for nutrition, exercise and rest, and ask for help when you need it. Finally, to help you feel prepared and empowered as a parent, and because babies don’t come with a manual, contact NewbornCourse.com for help with all aspects of parenting your little one.
Being concerned about the flu is natural. Hopefully, by proactively caring for yourself and your baby, you can prevent being sidelined this flu season.
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