Being a new transplant to the area and being in search of a local OB/GYN would be enough to cause anxiety for any mom-to-be. Add to it a pandemic and a high-risk pregnancy, and you have the makings for a truly stressful pregnancy. 

Although Fralonda Aubrey was expecting her second child, it was her first time to be planning for a scheduled induction — thanks to a recent diagnosis of gestational diabetes. Needless to say, emotions were through the roof due to all of the unknowns for the 34-year-old.

“In April when information about COVID-19 began to increase and the nation started to go into panic mode, I was right there with it,” Fralonda admits. “There were stories about more and more positive individuals, pregnant women who had tested positive, and even stories of babies who were turning up with the virus. I was nervous because I was seven months along and still going into my workplace as well.” 

“Once I found an obstetrician and started going to my appointments, I had to go alone. My husband couldn’t accompany me to my ultrasound screenings either. It was difficult for both of us. And since policies and safety guidelines were changing almost daily, everyone was left guessing about what my delivery would actually look like. I had to work hard to calm myself. I had to tell myself to stop stressing, because the stress could harm the baby,” she adds.

During her visits with her new obstetrician, Hayley Grover, D.O., Fralonda received reassurance that even though changes in hospital policies could happen she would be in good hands at Texas Health Harris Methodist Hospital Fort Worth. Grover answered Fralonda’s questions as best she could while keeping an eye on Fralonda’s diet and stress level for any signs of trouble.

When Fralonda and her husband arrived at the hospital early on the morning of May 4, they were greeted by a “caring and supportive” Labor & Delivery staff. Fralonda was calmed by the fact that at least her husband could be with her during the birthing experience, and the couple felt safe due to the measures that were put in place to keep them and Baby Aubrey well. 

“Upon our arrival, the nurse smiled and said, ‘let’s have a baby’,” she recalls. “I was nervous about getting an epidural because I had difficulty with my first son, but nurse Alicia Joesph was incredible. She informed me of everything that was going on in the delivery room. She also coached and motivated me through the laboring process. I had told her I really wanted to have a natural childbirth, but that if I said ‘CODE RED’ to get me the epidural.

As the contractions grew more painful, she encouraged me with kind words. It was like I had a family member there with me. I pushed only about three times and my son arrived. I ended up delivering Royse naturally at 1:15 that afternoon! I was transferred to the postpartum area and the nurses that supported us throughout the remainder of our stay were great as well. I am so grateful to have such a happy experience to share.”

Fralonda offers this advice to other moms who are preparing to give birth during the pandemic: “Relax and enjoy your pregnancy experience. Yes, the fact that there’s a pandemic going on is scary. The changes in hospital policies may be alarming. However, this is an experience that is unique. Worrying will not change the situation, and panicking can put your health and that of your baby at risk. Ask your medical team questions about will take place so you have an idea of what is to come. Check out virtual prenatal classes and review the virtual tours of the hospital to get familiar with the environment. Above all, feel secure enough to let strangers such as the doctors and nurses become your support away from family.”

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