Rochelle Humes to self-isolate until baby's birth: What is the official advice for pregnant women?
Rochelle Humes has announced in an Instagram post that she will be isolating until her baby is born, admitting she’s “a bit freaked out” again about the coronavirus.
The 31-year-old TV presenter is 38 weeks’ pregnant with her third child, having already had Alaia-May, seven, and Valentina, three, with husband Marvin.
Humes isn’t the only celebrity to feel worried about COVID-19 as her due date approaches, with Paloma Faith commenting on the post to say: “I’m the same I’m pregnant and already said NO WORK 3rd trimester as I’m crazy with worry!”
It has led some parents to question when and if they should be isolating as their third trimester draws to a close.
A post shared by R O C H E L L E H U M E S (@rochellehumes) on
The Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists are publishing the most up-to-date information for pregnant women when it comes to COVID-19, so pregnant women are advised to monitor this for any changes.
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At present, although pregnant women are in the moderate risk category as a precaution, they are not being advised to isolate at any time throughout their pregnancy unless they have coronavirus, symptoms of the coronavirus, have come into contact with somebody who has, or have been told to by their doctor or midwife.
The official guidance does, however, say that “if you are in your third trimester (more than 28 weeks’ pregnant) you should be particularly attentive to social distancing”.
Pregnant women are still required to attend all antenatal appointments, even if they do choose to otherwise isolate. If your area is facing a local lockdown, it’s also important to double check the current rules with your midwife to ensure you have the most up-to-date information.
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Despite the advice, many women in the very latter stages of their pregnancy are making the decision to self-isolate like Humes.
One woman responded to Humes’ post by saying: “I’m with you. I’m a teacher and working up to 37 weeks. Will be isolating after that as want to avoid every possibility of getting ill before going in to hospital. It’s probably for the best though as the body can then rest until baby comes.”
“I’m 36 weeks today and am now starting to feel anxious about COVID and being pregnant but have the school run to do every day and appointment after appointment,” another shared.
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While studies have shown that most women with coronavirus aren’t affected differently from anybody else, it did note that “the majority of women who did become severely ill were in their third trimester of pregnancy”.
Although this fact may be a worry for women in their third trimester, it’s important to note that the figures are based on a very small number of women, with most pregnant women with COVID-19 make a full recovery.
If you’re unsure about the right course of action for you, it’s a good idea to speak to your midwife about your individual situation and come up with a plan that suits you.
