As the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) continues to spread, people have been seeing changes in their daily lives. This is also true at our Connecticut fertility clinic. To protect our patients and our staff, Andrew Levi MD is following the coronavirus and fertility guidelines from the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM).
To comply with these guidelines, Dr. Levi is not currently performing diagnostic testing or treatment cycles for IUI or IVF. However, he is offering virtual consultations for new patients and telemedicine follow-up appointments. Once the coronavirus crisis is over, our team will be ready to resume our regular services.
Facts about the coronavirus and fertility
Many pregnant women want to know whether their unborn babies are at-risk of contracting COVID-19. Currently, no evidence suggests that the virus can be transmitted to the baby in utero. However, this information is based on a small study, so it could change.
The team at our Connecticut fertility clinic does know that pregnant women experience bodily changes that can make them more vulnerable to illnesses like the flu. However, basic health and hygiene precautions can go far to protect patients.
Health and safety tips during the COVID-19 pandemic
Hearing stories about the virus can be frightening, but we are not powerless. The following recommendations can help you protect yourself and your family from COVID-19.
Stay at home and practice social distancing. To prevent the spread of disease, government and health officials recommend that people stay home as much as possible. If you must go out, practice social distancing and stay at least 6 feet away from others.
Don’t touch your face. Most people touch their face multiple times a day, so it can be a hard habit to break. However, try to avoid touching your face with unwashed hands.
Practice proper sneeze and cough etiquette. Use a tissue to cover your mouth and nose when you sneeze or cough. If one isn’t available, cough or sneeze into your elbow.
Most importantly, you should wash your hands for at least 20 seconds with warm water and soap. If that’s not possible, you can use a hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.
If you have any other questions about the coronavirus and fertility, contact us. Our Connecticut fertility clinic team is here for you during this stressful time.