Expecting During a Pandemic: Husbands Now Allowed Inside Delivery Room at St. Luke's

I missed out a lot while expecting during a pandemic. I didn't get to enjoy those fun baby fairs or experience a baby shower. I found myself extra paranoid every time I step out of the house. And getting the food I crave was, more often than not, a challenge. But the saddest thing this new normal changed for pregnant women is not having their husbands or partners beside them during labor and delivery. I wanted to share this precious moment with R. And luck was on our side when I found out that one companion during delivery is now allowed at St. Luke's! 

Two days to go before we meet Sam!

I was beyond thrilled when I accidentally found out that husbands or partners can now enter the delivery room. It was late at night when I was browsing through Glam-O-Mamas' Facebook community page when someone inquired about a swab test for her husband as he'll accompany her in the delivery room. She was asking fellow moms if paying PHP4,300 (walk-in) or PHP6,500 (drive-thru) is worth it given its short validity of five days for dads or dads-to-be (versus two weeks for moms). 

Pregnancy Journey: My Covid-19 Swab Test Experience at St. Luke's Medical Center QC

Being pregnant during a pandemic could be a blessing and a curse. Though I enjoyed the break I got from the two-month lockdown and skipping the grueling daily commute to and from the office, there are just too many changes and new normal to keep up with. From prenatal check-ups to giving birth, that makes the whole pregnancy journey became not as bright and happy, especially for first-time moms like me. And one of the things I dreaded the most is the hospital policy of pregnant women having swab test prior to giving birth. Hearing and reading about how stressful the experience could be made me worried. But to my surprise, it was actually not that bad thanks to the efficient team behind St. Luke's Medical Center Quezon City's drive-thru team. 

Hello, Covid-19 Swab Test!

My pregnancy journey has been relatively smooth throughout the whole 36 weeks. Though there were minor dizzy spells, weird cravings, and back pains, I never encountered anything serious or problematic. I'm so thankful too as the last thing I want to do is go to the hospital for a series of laboratory tests. My OB-GYNE visits (outside the hospital) alone was enough to make me paranoid. (I refuse to take the lift and climb up five flights of stairs every time I have an appointment.)