Pregnant women have been given advice on how to cope during the coronavirus lockdown.

While preganancy is a time of great excitement and joy, mums-to-be can also feel nervous and a little daunted at the best of times, and under the current circumstances, anyone expecting a baby will probably be feeling more uncertain than ever.

The Government has included pregnant women in its list of ’vulnerable groups’ in relation to Covid-19, but the Royal College of Obstetricans and Gynaecologists (RCOG) has reassured expectant mothers that ’the large majority of women will experience only mild or moderate cold or flu-like symptoms’ if infected with the virus. There’s currently no data to suggest that there’s an increased risk of miscarriage in relation to Covid-19, says the organisation.

Although there have been no specific dangers linking Covid-19 to pregnancy, it is still of vital importance to take any precautionary measures possible, as there are still many unknowns about the exact nature of the virus.

There are a number of things that preganant woman and their families can do to help reduce the burden while in self-isolation.

Sanitary product company Lil-Lets has produced some tips and advice to help you through it.

Build a support network online – reach out to friends and family over the internet, and consider joining a forum such as Mumsnet, (https://www.mumsnet.com/pregnancy) if you’re not already a member.

Maintain your physical health – again the internet is a saving grace here and you can access yoga, sit down Pilates and specific pregnancy exercise routines online.

Mental health and wellbeing is also vital – use a mindfulness app or audiobook. Make a phone call to a person you know will help you feel uplifted.

Shop for maternity clothes online to prepare for your changing body and to give yourself a boost – many retailers are offering free delivery

Stay healthy by eating well. Although trips to the shops will now be more difficult, many local companies are offering deliveries of fresh fruit and veg, meats and dairy, and other essential items

Grow your own – together with others in your household, plant seeds in a pot, a windowbox or a bed in your garden. Produce like lettuce will be ready to eat in a few weeks, and certain plants will be there to enjoy with your newborn when he or she arrives.

Have your bag ready. Make a checklist of things you’ll need and pack a bag ready to go to the hospital if you’re nearing your due date.

Are you pregnant and finding new ways to cope in the lockdown? Or have you just had a baby? The Cornish Times would love to hear from you if you would like to share your story with readers – contact us on [email protected]