COVID-19 is an infectious disease caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2). The World Health Organization learned of the new virus in late December 2019 and declared the COVID-19 outbreak a pandemic in March 2020.
Doctors and researchers are learning more and more about the virus and the disease on a daily basis. At Cary OB/GYN, our team of women’s health experts are following the situation and the updates closely so we can make sure you get the best care possible without putting you at risk of infection.
We understand that you have a lot of questions about gynecological care and COVID-19. Here are some of the things we want you to know.
About COVID-19
The coronavirus is a family of viruses that cause a variety of symptoms and diseases. Your last cold may have been a coronavirus.
COVID-19 is a highly contagious coronavirus that spreads from person-to-person through droplets released into the air after someone with the infection coughs, sneezes, or talks. Once infected, you may develop symptoms within two to 14 days. Some of the most common COVID-19 symptoms include:
- Fever
- Cough
- Shortness of breath
- Muscle aches
- Fatigue
Symptoms vary from mild to severe, and some people never develop symptoms at all.
Certain groups of people, including older adults, people with suppressed immune systems (pregnant women), and people with a chronic disease are at greater risk of developing severe symptoms that require hospitalization and may have increased risk of death.
Gynecological care and COVID-19
When it comes to gynecological care and COVID-19, we’re following the guidelines set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.
Currently, we’re providing all usual services at both of our offices in Cary and Morrisville, North Carolina. This includes preventive screening, contraception care, and management of common gynecological issues like pelvic pain and abnormal bleeding. We’re also scheduling ultrasounds, mammograms, and in-office procedures.
During your office visit, we require that all patients wear a mask. We also have a new check-in process to limit patient wait time in the lobby.
We’re continuing to offer telemedicine appointments for patients who wish to avoid an in-office visit.
Pregnancy and COVID-19
According to ACOG and the most current data, pregnant women may be at higher risk of serious COVID-19 infection than women who aren’t pregnant. This means if you’re pregnant and have COVID-19, you may be more likely to require hospitalization and respiratory support.
COVID-19 may also increase your risk of preterm labor and stillbirth. Though rare, it’s also possible for you to pass the infection to your baby during pregnancy.
To stay safe during pregnancy and COVID-19, we recommend:
- Keeping all of your pregnancy and prenatal care appointments
- Limiting your interaction with other people as much as possible
- Staying more than 6 feet away from others and wearing a mask when you’re out
- Washing your hands with soap and water frequently (counting to 20 seconds)
- Not touching your nose, eyes, or mouth as much as possible
- Stocking your home with supplies to minimize trips out
If you’re pregnant and have a fever or cough, contact us right away. We can help determine if you need to get tested for COVID-19.
While we’ve made a few changes, you can still get comprehensive gynecological and obstetric care during the COVID-19 pandemic. To schedule an appointment, call the Cary OB/GYN office nearest you today.
