COVID Testing for Pregnancy in New York, NY – Rosh MFM

Pregnancy is a time when your health decisions carry extra weight. Staying on top of COVID testing is one of the most important steps you can take to protect both yourself and your baby. At Rosh Maternal & Fetal Medicine, we offer rapid, FDA-approved COVID testing with results available in less than one hour.

We use RT-PCR molecular diagnostic testing, widely regarded as the most reliable method available today. Same-day appointments are available at our New York locations, so you never have to wait long to get the answers you need.

COVID Testing for Pregnancy: Why It Matters

Pregnant women face unique health considerations when it comes to COVID-19. The virus can affect a pregnancy in ways that go beyond what a non-pregnant person might experience, making timely testing and close monitoring especially important.

Our team understands the specific risks involved and offers testing within the context of full obstetric care. Any concerning results receive the attention and follow-up they deserve.

What Happens If You Get COVID During Pregnancy?

Getting COVID while pregnant does not automatically mean serious complications. However, it does mean your care team needs to know right away. Some pregnant patients experience mild symptoms and recover without issue, while others may develop more significant illness that requires closer monitoring or treatment. The key is to catch it early and stay in contact with your physician throughout your recovery.

If you test positive, we assess your symptoms, review your pregnancy stage, and determine the most appropriate level of care. We monitor fetal well-being alongside your own health and adjust your prenatal care schedule if needed.

What Are the Risks of Being Pregnant with COVID?

Research shows pregnant women with COVID face a higher risk of certain complications compared to non-pregnant adults of the same age. These include preterm birth, admission to intensive care, and the need for early delivery to protect the mother’s health. Pregnant women with underlying conditions such as diabetes, obesity, or high blood pressure face an even greater level of risk.

A common question we hear from patients is whether babies can get COVID. Newborns can test positive for COVID, though transmission during pregnancy through the placenta appears to be uncommon. The greater concern is exposure after birth, which is why we take a careful approach to delivery planning and newborn care guidance for patients who test positive close to their due date.

Symptoms and Causes

COVID-19 in pregnancy presents much the same way as it does in the general population. Common symptoms include:

• Fever
• Cough
• Shortness of breath
• Fatigue
• Body aches
• Loss of taste or smell
• Sore throat
• Congestion.

Some patients experience gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea or diarrhea. Pregnant women sometimes find it harder to distinguish COVID symptoms from normal pregnancy discomforts, particularly fatigue and shortness of breath.

Diagnosis and Tests

We recommend COVID testing during pregnancy in several situations:

• You are experiencing symptoms consistent with COVID-19
• You have had a known or suspected exposure to someone who tested positive
• You are preparing for a scheduled procedure, induction, or cesarean delivery
• You are in the third trimester and want reassurance before your due date
• Your employer or travel plans require a recent negative test result

We use RT-PCR molecular diagnostic testing, the gold standard in COVID detection. Results come back in under an hour, and our team reviews findings with you directly. Understand what your result means for your pregnancy and next steps.

Management and Treatment

If you test positive, our care plan depends on your symptoms and your stage of pregnancy.

For mild cases, we recommend rest, staying hydrated, managing fever, and using medications that are safe during pregnancy. We also schedule regular check-ins to monitor your progress and your baby’s during recovery.

If symptoms become moderate or severe, we work with hospital care teams so you receive the support you need. Prompt, attentive care for pregnant patients is a must, as early treatment supports the best outcome for you and your baby.

At Rosh MFM, we make the process as quick and straightforward as possible. Get in touch with our team whenever you need us.

Certifications & Professional Credentials

Our physicians bring a high level of training and professional recognition to every patient interaction. Here is a snapshot of the credentials our team holds:

Our specialists hold board certifications in obstetrics and gynecology and maternal-fetal medicine, issued by the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology (ABOG). 

Many of our physicians have earned prestigious fellowship designations from respected medical organizations across the United States, including:

• FACOG: Fellow of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists
• FACS: Fellow of the American College of Surgeons

What Our Patients Say

Hearing directly from the people we care for means everything to us. Here are a few words from patients who have trusted our team with their health.

“The office has an incredible energy. Dr. Nontawan Benja far exceeded my expectations, intelligent with the most up-to-date recommendations, nonjudgmental, and just an indescribable disposition. I will be forever grateful.” — Angela T.

“I truly loved my visit to Rosh. The front desk staff was swift and efficient, and my appointment was right on time. The doctor was kind, took her time with me, was caring and funny to boot.” — Sabina M.