Does anyone know what happens with covid and appointments?

[Worriedandabitscared]

Hello,

I didn't know if this was the right thread but it seems likely that my DH has covid, we're just waiting on the test result (finger crossed it's negative but I have a funny feeling it'll be positive since he can't smell or taste)

Problem is I'm 36 weeks pregnant and I have about 6 really important appointments this week one for a consultation about birth options which I can't really miss - does anyone know what I need to do? Do I just inform them or do I not go? Obviously I don't want to put anyone at risk of catching it (I feel fine within myself but I know I could be asymptotic) but I obviously cannot cross my legs and wait it out - I'm just not too sure what I have to do?

Thanks

Speak to the person that’s running the appointment. I’d imagine they’d get put back until your isolation period is over or moved to over the phone

Contact the hospital before going - they will have a process in place.

I hope your husband is feeling better soon.

You call them, they will have procedures that cover your situation but those might vary by maternity unit, so it's better to ask.

If your DH’s test is positive, and even while you’re waiting for the result, you absolutely can’t leave the house.

Call your midwife/hospital and explain at the earliest opportunity. Don’t just not turn up but equally don’t go without having spoken to someone.

Many appointments are being done virtually using Attend Anywhere or similar software so that you can still have face to face appointments, two way conversations etc, and the added bonus that your husband can join too.

You might be able to do some of them via video. But yes, if your DH comes back positive you’re isolating I’m afraid. It’s only ten days from the start of his symptoms though, so you may be able to reschedule them for fairly soon. Except if you get it yourself I suppose.
Gawd. Good luck with it all.

Yes speak to your midwife team or consultant team. They will either put back your appointments until after your isolation period or if you really need the appointments they’ll put you in a private area with staff wearing additional ppe.

I would think you would have a phone consultation or you will be triaged to the Covid section of maternity.

Ring them DO NOT GO - you are in self isolation you turning up puts everyone in that waiting room at risk

They will decide if they can
a) do the appointments in one go - 6 in one week is ridiculous even when not a pandemic
b) if any of it can be done over the phone/video call - if it's birth options that can be, then your blood pressure check etc done in person so there is less physical time spent with you
c) can it be delayed safely
d) can it be done in your home - I've been sent in as a community midwife rather than bringing her to clinic
e) does the location need to be moved - most maternity unit have an area designated for covid where you can come from a seperate entrance, ring when you are there and will be brought up by a member of staff- ours uses the fire exit

This is the ridiculous place we're in, isn't it? When I was 36 weeks pregnant, little did I know that DS would be making his appearance a week later - had he been born during a pandemic, I doubt he would have politely waited until I'd finished a ten day isolation period.

At this stage of the pregnancy, I don't think the appointments can just be put back! I'm sure your hospital must have established protocol for just this scenario, so best to call them and get their advice.