Pregnancy Tips

Can I get a COVID Vaccine when I am Pregnant?

In Fall 2021, we are currently experiencing a COVID surge in Redding, California and almost all of the patients hospitalized are unvaccinated individuals. 

The Pfizer COVID vaccine now has full FDA approval. Although pregnant women were excluded during the initial FDA safety studies, data gathered from tens of thousands of women vaccinated during pregnancy has shown it to be safe. The COVID vaccine has NOT been shown to increase the risk of miscarriage. COVID vaccination is recommended in pregnancy by both the CDC (Center for Disease Control), ACOG (the American College of OBGYNs) and SMFM (the Society of Maternal-Fetal Medicine of high-risk pregnancy specialists).

COVID-19 infection causes mild to severe respiratory symptoms and can lead to pneumonia, death, and long-term disability. Pregnant women who catch COVID-19 (compared to non-pregnant women) are at increased risk for death, ICU admission / intubation, preterm labor, and may be at increased risk for stillbirth and miscarriage. The COVID vaccine is very effective (>90%). The COVID vaccine lowers your chance of catching the virus and, if you do catch it, lessens your symptoms and lowers your chance of transmitting it to others. 

Vaccines are designed to protect you from catching diseases and/or to minimize symptoms and complications if you do catch a disease. Most vaccines do this by exposing your body to “something” (such as a weakened version of the disease, a dead version of the disease, or a piece of the disease) that then triggers your body to form “messenger RNA” (mRNA), that then tells your body to make “antibodies” (immune complexes), which then attack a disease if you are exposed to it. The newer COVID vaccines deliver pre-made mRNA to the body.

11 Tips to Stay Cool in the Summer While Pregnant

Being pregnant is one of the most wonderful experiences in a woman’s life, however with that said, being pregnant in the middle of summer, in Redding when it’s 110 degrees outside, can be absolutely miserable! If you are looking for helpful tips on how to “Beat the Heat” this summer, keep reading!

First of all, it’s important to mention that during pregnancy a woman’s body has an increased amount of blood which naturally makes you warmer. Becoming overheated or dehydrated can be dangerous for mother and baby. Here are some helpful tips for staying cool and comfortable while pregnant during the summer time.

1. Stay Hydrated – Drink Lots of Water

During pregnancy, many women sweat more. Sweating leads to dehydration, so it is very important to drink lots of water.

2. Stay Indoors with Air Conditioning

Try to avoid being outside during the middle of the day when it is the hottest. Walk or garden in the early mornings or early evenings.

3. Take a Dip – Go Swimming

If you have access to a pool or community pool like Redding Aquatic Center, this is a great way to cool off and get exercise. Swimming is wonderful exercise for anyone but is a very good exercise for a pregnant woman. She can cool off and move easily in the water.

4. Wear Sunblock

Pregnant women are more susceptible to sunburn. During pregnancy a woman’s skin is more sensitive to the sun. Pregnant women are more likely to sunburn, and also to develop skin discolorations in response to sun exposure. It is very important to wear sunblock (at least SPF 30). Consider long sleeve shirts made of light fabrics and a hat your new fashion staples!

5. Summertime Wardrobe

Wear lightweight breathable fabrics like cotton to allow your skin to breath. Loose clothing allows for more airflow.

6. Shower Yourself with Love

Taking cool showers often will help keep your temperature lower.

7. Mocktails Instead of Cocktails

We all enjoy a nice summer cocktail but during pregnancy a woman should avoid alcohol. Instead try a non-alcoholic “mocktail”.

8. Exercise Indoors

Exercising outdoors in the summer time can be harmful. It is important for a pregnant woman, it keeps her healthy, makes her feel better, prepares her body for childbirth and helps regain her pre pregnancy body. Despite all of that working out outside is dangerous. It would be best to do your exercises indoors in the air conditioning.

9. Eat Smaller, Lighter Meals

Eat smaller, lighter meals throughout the day, evening out your metabolism.

10. Mist Me Please!

Keep a squirt bottle or small misting fan with water on you during your summer outings.

11. Cold Compresses

Wet a few washcloths and stick them in your freezer, then pull them out on super hot days, put your feet up and relax! Get some rest!

We want you to enjoy your summer before your new baby comes, following these tips can help make your summer more manageable and enjoyable. If you have any questions about pregnancy feel free to call our office at (530) 225-8500.

Staying Active while you are pregnant will help keep you feeling great and in shape for the big delivery day!

1. Swimming – Swimming allows you to exercise without becoming overheated and makes you feel weightless no matter the size of your baby bump.

2. Prenatal Yoga – Helps lower stress and can help make labor and delivery much smoother.

3. Walking – A brisk walk everyday will help you stay tone and get your endorphins going which can help you sleep at night.

4. Stretching – Simple stretches can help with back and sciatic pain.