Navigating Women’s Health and COVID-19 Together

Navigating Women’s Health and COVID-19 Together: A Message from David A. Marcantel, MD, FACOG

We have certainly been through challenging times over these 20 years since Celebration Obstetrics & Gynecology opened its doors. However, nothing has compared to the events that have unfolded over the last 60 days for our practice, our state, our country and the world. Since COVID-19 showed up here just 60 days ago all our lives have changed dramatically.

Since the onset of COVID-19 our practice and its staff have worked tirelessly to keep our doors open and access to healthcare available to all of you. We have implemented new procedures and protocols to keep you safe. We have screening, distance in the reception area, only the patient allowed in the office, efficiency getting you to a room with your provider and a significant change is the addition of Telehealth to our practice. Please make sure to register for our patient portal so that you can request a Telehealth visit when it makes more sense than coming into the office.

We believe well care continues to be an important part of your overall health and well being and we want to make sure you continue with your appointments here and with your other physicians.

Regarding our pregnant patients we want you to know that Advent Health Celebration has had very few cases of COVID-19 and an extremely low number of patients admitted. The hospital has kept any potential COVID-19 patients away from Labor & Delivery, Gynecology and the Pediatric areas.

The best place to have your baby is in the hospital. We have had patients inquire about a home birth and it is important that you know that we do NOT recommend a home birth. A home birth in the U.S. has been associated with a two- to three-fold increase in infant mortality, as well as increased risks associated with medical complications.

We are excited to care for you whether you are here for your annual well visit, coming in for a problem, seeking surgery or you are pregnant! Our practice wants to make sure you have everything you need. We are open and here for you 24/7.

Don’t hesitate to call, email or send a task in the patient portal.

We are proud to have kept 100% of our staff employed during this crisis and we will be here whenever you need us. Remember: wash your hands frequently, keep 6 feet distancing and when appropriate wear a mask to keep you safe from this virus.

Sincerely,

David A. Marcantel, MD, FACOG

Celebration Obstetrics and Gynecology, Owner

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May Newsletter

Coronavirus (COVID-19), Pregnancy, and Breastfeeding

Coronavirus (COVID-19), Pregnancy, and Breastfeeding: A Message for Patients

Reviewed by: Lisa Hollier, MD, MPH, FACOG, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas

Experts are learning more every day about the new coronavirus that causes COVID-19. The American College of

Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) is following the situation closely.

How can COVID-19 affect a fetus?

It is too early for researchers to know how COVID-19 might affect a fetus. Some pregnant women with COVID-19 have had preterm births, but it is not clear whether the preterm births were because of COVID-19. It is not likely that COVID-19 passes to a fetus during pregnancy, labor, or delivery, but more research is needed to be sure.

What should pregnant women do to avoid the coronavirus?

The virus spreads mainly from person-to-person contact. Pregnant women can take the same steps as other people to

protect themselves. These steps include:

Washing hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds and/or cleaning hands with a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol if you cannot wash them (rub until your hands feel dry)
Avoiding touching your eyes, nose, and mouth
Staying home as much as possible
Staying at least 6 feet away from other people if you need to go out
Avoiding people who are sick

See all the prevention tips from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

How will COVID-19 affect prenatal and postpartum care visits?

As this virus spreads, it is a good idea to call your obstetrician–gynecologist (ob-gyn) or other health care professional to

find out how your visits may be changed. Some women may have fewer or more spaced out in-person visits. You also may have more options to connect with your health care team over the phone or through an online video call. This is called telemedicine, or telehealth. Telehealth is a great way for you to get the care you need while preventing the spread of disease.

How can I manage stress, anxiety, and depression?

Some pregnant and postpartum women may be feeling fear, uncertainty, stress, or anxiety because of COVID-19.

Reaching out to friends and family during this time may help. Phone calls, texts, and online chats are safe ways to stay

connected to others. There also are treatment and support resources you can access over the phone or online. Talk with your ob-gyn or other health care professional about how to get help if you’re having any symptoms like the ones below:

Feeling sad, hopeless, worthless, or helpless
Being afraid or worried, which may cause a fast heartbeat
Feeling that life is not worth living
Having repeated scary or unwanted thoughts that are hard to get rid of

If you are in crisis or feel like you want to harm yourself or others, call 911 right away. Physical activity also may help your mental health. And it may be useful to focus on your breathing each day, especially if you are feeling anxious. Breathe in for 4 seconds, hold for 7 seconds, and breathe out for 8 seconds. Repeat this breathing three times to help you relax.

CLICK HERE to download a copy of the ACOG article.

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