As a result of a report released from the New England Journal of Medicine, according to the AP, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recently revised its Swine Flu guidelines. The new recommendations are that flu drugs be given to women who show signs of the flu soon after they give birth.

The threat of swine flu to pregnant women, particularly to those in their 2nd and 3rd trimesters, has been well-documented. Pregnant women have been advised to obtain vaccinations as the virus has proven so deadly that researchers believe it may increase the nation's overall maternal mortality for 2009.

So why is Swine flu a threat in particular to new moms and not to all moms? Our expert Dr. Jason Rothbart weighs in:

Why in general are new moms at a higher risk for contracting the virus?

New moms, like pregnant women, have depressed immune systems. These immune systems are depressed in order to sustain a pregnancy during the pregnancy period. During post partum period the immune system is still down as the woman's body reverts to it's non pregnant state. This depressed immune system leaves post partum women more vulnerable to any virus including H1N1.

Can a Breastfeeding mother receive the flu shot or nasal spray?

According to the CDC, "Breastfeeding is fully compatible with flu vaccination, and preventing the flu in mothers can reduce the chance that the infant will get the flu. Also, by breastfeeding, mothers can pass on to the infant the antibodies that their bodies make in response to the flu shots, which can reduce the infant’s chances of getting sick with the flu. This is especially important for infants less than 6 months old, who have no other way of receiving vaccine antibodies, since they are too young to be vaccinated."

Are birthing mothers at a higher risk for contracting the virus at the hospital?

Everybody is at a higher risk during the flu season at the hospital. Many hospitals right are following strict policies--not allowing any children under the age of 18 to enter the hospital (even to visit loved ones). In some cases, pregnant women with varying medical conditions can be hospitalized, so not being able to see their other children can be really very hard.

What medications can new moms take if they contract H1N1?

Acetaminophen and Tamiflu are fine. They should stay very hydrated. Rest as much as possible... Of course, as a new mom, that's not very easy!

See Also:
-How Can I Treat Nausea During Pregnancy?