Abortion and COVID-19
COVID-19 is causing panic literally worldwide. We’re under stay-at-home orders, social distancing rules, and need to regularly wash our hands. The fear is real. Doctors aren’t sure how the virus is spread, so everyone is at risk. What if you have symptoms and then suddenly discover you are unexpectedly pregnant? Can you get an abortion and have COVID-19?
Symptoms of COVID-19
If you have any of the following symptoms, it’s essential to contact your doctor right away. Pregnant or not, the virus can have severe consequences, and you need to be proactive.
- Fever
- Cough
- Trouble breathing with a feeling of heaviness or pain in your chest
- Not able to respond to others
- Bluish lips or face
If you are experiencing the last two signs, you need to dial 911 immediately.
Pregnancy and COVID 19
Although there isn’t a lot of information available, being pregnant and contracting COVID-19 does not appear to affect the fetus. Studies have shown, so far, the virus isn’t spread from mother to baby. However, complications from the flu, such as dehydration and pneumonia, can be severe. In some cases, even fatal. Because pregnancy can change a woman’s immune system, a pregnant woman is at higher risk for complications and more likely to be hospitalized.
Having an abortion when sick with COVID 19
Any time you have the flu, a severe cold, fever, trouble breathing (like COVID-19), or any other medical condition, you need to notify your doctor before having any medical procedure. If you have a fever for over 24 hours (temperature of 100.4° or higher), you need to seek medical attention before scheduling an abortion. You may be required to take specific medications or follow other instructions beforehand. Always ask your doctor before taking any over-the-counter medicines. Products such as Tylenol, aspirin such as Excedrin or Bayer, ibuprofen like Motrin, or other medications such as Sudafed and Dayquil are not automatically considered safe.
Questions about your pregnancy
If you are not sure what to do about your unexpected pregnancy, contact Palm Beach Women’s Clinic. We recommend three steps before you make any decision:
- Take an in-clinic pregnancy test
- Have an ultrasound to find out how far along you are in your pregnancy
- Talk about your options
Schedule a Free Appointment
Make an appointment with a member of our staff. We can discuss abortion procedures and your future.