COVID-19 in Pregnancy

Last updated August, 2023

We are here for you — We understand that Covid-19 still creates uncertainty for patients and families. At Four Seasons OB/GYN & Midwifery we continue to work diligently to keep our community and your pregnancy safe. While Covid-19 has clearly waned, it is by no means gone. We aim to give you the most up-to-date information possible as we move into our “new normal.” Please do not hesitate to reach out to us if you have questions or need support.

Changes at Four Seasons OB/GYN & Midwifery

In General:

Please let us know if you have (or suspect you have) Covid during your pregnancy so we can make special accommodations for your care and arrange testing if needed.
As of May 8, 2023, masking at BMH is optional unless you are experiencing symptoms such as a cough, sore throat, sneezing, a runny nose, or fever. Covid screeners are no longer stationed at BMH entrances, so if you have these symptoms we rely on you to wear a mask to keep both our staff and other patients safe.
If you have not already signed up for the BMH Patient Portal, now is a great time to do so as we have found it to be one of the best ways to communicate with patients from a distance.

In the Office:

Our staff is always happy to wear a mask if you prefer. Just ask!
Some prenatal visits may be done via telehealth depending on community transmission rates, your symptoms or exposure, and your comfort level.

Appointments at Radiology/Sonograms:

Pictures usually are provided, though technology (cell phones, videos, cameras) cannot be used during sonograms.
A single adult visitor is permitted to accompany a patient for their ultrasound. Please follow instruction as provided by the Ultrasound Technologist.

At the Hospital:

We no longer routinely test for Covid on admission unless you are exhibiting symptoms.
Your support person and all visitors should be healthy and without symptoms or exposure to COVID-19. While there is no limitation on the number of support people you may have, we encourage you to keep your birthing team small to protect you, your baby, and our staff.

While You are in Labor:

Our usual labor supports, including pain medications and epidurals, are available.
In the event that you have Covid at the time of your child’s birth, you will be admitted to a negative pressure room just outside the birthing center. Our normal birthing center staff will continue to care for you. Your provider and nursing staff will wear full personal protective equipment (mask, face shield, gown, etc.) during your birth.
If you are known or suspected to have COVID-19 while in labor, we can talk in greater depth about what other changes you can expect. You will still be allowed a support person regardless of your Covid status.

Other Pregnancy-Specific Considerations:

We strongly encourage you to be cautious about potential Covid-19 exposures during pregnancy. Please consider being extra cautious or self-isolating after 37 weeks to help prevent you from having COVID-19 while in labor. Talk with us if you need support working from home or starting your leave early to accomplish this.
Think about who might be your back-up support person, should your support person become ill around the time you are in labor. Support people are always welcome via phone, FaceTime, etc., if they are unable to be present.
Know your status, have home antigen tests on hand, and consider getting a COVID test (especially at the end of your pregnancy). Follow this link to learn about available testing options.
Take a virtual tour of the BMH Birthing Center. In-person tours are also offered if you would prefer!
Consider what your postpartum supports might look like; we are happy to help navigate local resources.
Now is an especially great time for you and your partner to consider smoking cessation (Learn more about 802quits).