Introduction
A new study published by Science Translational Medicine on October 19, 2021, found that pregnant women have varied responses to COVID-19 depending on the gender of their unborn child. Researchers came from Boston, Massachusetts. They analyzed samples of maternal blood, cord blood, and placenta from pregnant women who had contracted the infection. Let’s explore more this peculiar situation.
New Study: Fetus’ Sex Affects Immune Response To COVID-19 Apr 21
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Andrea Edlow, a senior author of the study and a maternal-fetal medicine specialist, explained that male placentas show higher levels of certain genes and proteins linked to enhanced immune activation during maternal SARS-CoV-2 infection. These genes and proteins may defend the placenta from the infection, but can also cause more inflammation.
Some people claim that they can tell when a pregnant woman is carrying a male or a female child. What is your opinión about this?
Opposed to mothers carrying female fetuses, those who carry male fetuses and are infected with COVID-19 produce fewer antibodies against the virus and pass much less virus protection to their infant, thus affecting the infant's risk of contracting the vious.
Do you know if you were born by natural birth or by C-sections? What do you think is the hardest thing about pregnancy?
Moreover, in the early days of the pandemic, several studies have shown that males become more likely to die or suffer severe effects of COVID-19. One reason is that men have a slower immune response than women. Second is that men are more likely to participate in risky behaviors, such as ignoring physical distancing, and not taking symptoms seriously. Also, Dr. Stephen Berger said that the fact that heart disease is more common in elderly men than in elderly women adds to the reason.
What is your personal experience about COVID-19? Did you see the same number of males or females die?
Pregnancy is not easy, it comes with physical discomfort, physiological, and psychological challenges. To make sure that pregnant women get what is best for them and their baby, regular prenatal care is advised. Visiting the doctor brings you important information about changes in your body, keeps track of the pregnancy and discovers any issues early.
Have you been pregnant? When was the last time you lived near a pregnant woman? Was it a good experience?
They also have to maintain a balanced diet. More vitamins and minerals including folate, iron, and calcium are needed during pregnancy. Aim to get additional 300-500 calories and enough protein each day. Regular exercise can also help to live a healthier lifestyle and relieve discomfort.
Are gender reveal parties common where you live? Are fathers invited? What was the best baby reveal party you've been to?
In these times, pregnant women and the people around them need to take steps to avoid COVID-19 because getting the virus increases the risks of delivering the baby prematurely. If symptoms such as fever, cough, or difficulty breathing were experienced, seek medical help as soon as possible.
Many companies are giving father’s time off when their spouse is about to give birth? Why is it important that males participate in the birth of a child?