Dr. Dawn George

By Vanessa Orr

Hurricane season begins in June, which means that Floridians need to prepare. This is especially true for expectant mothers, who should have a plan not only for themselves, but for their babies … especially if those little ones decide to arrive early.

According to Dr. Dawn George, a board-certified ob/gyn who practices in the Homestead office of MOMZ — the obstetrical/gynecological division of KIDZ Medical Services — pregnant women should be especially concerned during hurricane season as changes in barometric pressure can cause spontaneous rupture of the membrane, increasing the chances of early labor.

“Always have a bag packed, and know where the nearest hospital is,” Dr. George said, noting that the stress of an oncoming storm and dehydration can also cause pregnancy issues. “If the mom is close to her due date, she should contact her hospital and learn their protocol. Every hospital has a different policy, but if a woman is between 36 weeks and term, they will often make accommodations for them.”

Dr. Jamell Walker, another board-certified ob/gyn at MOMZ, adds that pregnant women taking medication should have a supply readily available, as well as copies of their medical records related to their pregnancy. Mothers using formula for newborns should stock up, as formula may not be readily available during or after a hurricane. Breastfeeding is recommended during this time, if possible, as the supply is readily available.

“Families should also have extra blankets and towels on hand in case they have to do a home delivery, though we’d certainly rather they go to a hospital,” Dr. Walker added, noting that there are lists online to help families compile a care kit to make the process easier.

If a mother does need to give birth at home, kit suggestions include blue pads, a perineal bottle, a newborn hat, a six-pack of lubricant jelly, four pairs of gloves, surgical attire, four plastic newborn cord clamps or cord ties, scissors, alcohol prep, sanity prep, a bulb syringe, a neonatal thermometer, newborn diapers, newborn blankets, and a battery-charged radio with extra batteries.

Both doctors suggest calling 9-1-1 or medical facilities in case of an emergency. Though help may not arrive in time, medical professionals can still help guide families through a home birth.

For those evacuating a hurricane area by car, the doctors also advise wearing compression hose on longer journeys and having plenty of food and water available. “There is nothing worse than being pregnant and hungry,” said Dr. George.

After a hurricane, precautions need to be taken to ensure the mom’s and baby’s health as well. New mothers should avoid letting strangers touch or hold the baby, even when sheltering together. They should wear a mask in medical facilities to reduce the risk of contracting or transmitting viral infections.

“Make sure to have plenty of diapers on hand as well as adequate clothes for changing the baby and extra blankets to keep the baby warm,” said Dr. Walker. “If there is no air-conditioning where you are staying, stay out of direct sunlight, use sunblock on both mom and baby, and stay hydrated with cool drinks. If there’s a shelter with AC, head that way.”

Sidebar

While everyone should have a plan in case of a hurricane, it is especially important for those with medical issues to be prepared to stay as healthy as possible. Things to have include:

• A month’s worth of medications
• A list of all health problems, medications, and allergies
• A digital copy of your insurance card on your phone, as well as a paper copy in case there isn’t power.
• A living will
• MedicAlert bracelets (if used)
• Personal identification
• Current family identification photos (including a photo of all members of the family together). Photos can help with family reunification should family members become separated.