COVID-19 and Risk of Pre-Term Birth
September 28, 2021
When it comes to pre-term birth, the incidence is higher if you contract COVID-19.
According to Susan J. Dulkerian, M.D., Chair, Department of Pediatrics, and Medical Director, Newborn Services in The Family Childbirth and Children’s Center at Mercy, studies show if you have another medical problem like hypertension or diabetes, the rate of premature births goes up to 160%.
Dr. Dulkerian noted that vaccines are safe for pregnant women.
"We know that the vaccines are safe. It's really important to get that vaccine to pass on that immunity to your child who can't get the vaccine right now," she said.
Babies are also able to get some immunity from COVID-19 through breast milk.
Testing of newborns has found they have antibodies right away.
To view Mercy neonatologist Dr. Susan Dulkerian’s interview regarding COVID-19 and pre-term birth, click here.
About Mercy
Founded in 1874 in Downtown Baltimore by the Sisters of Mercy, Mercy Medical Center is a 183-licensed bed, acute care, university-affiliated teaching hospital. Mercy has been recognized as a high-performing Maryland hospital (U.S. News & World Report); has achieved an overall 5-Star quality, safety, and patient experience rating (Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services); is A-rated for Hospital Safety (Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grade); and is certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center as a Magnet™ hospital. Mercy Health Services is a not-for-profit health system and the parent company of Mercy Medical Center and Mercy Personal Physicians.
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Email: dcollins@mdmercy.com