COVID-19 is a contagious condition caused by SARS-CoV-2. Its first case was reported in Wuhan, China in 2019. Since then, it has spread worldwide resulting in a pandemic. There have been many concerns about the effects of coronavirus on pregnancy. In pregnant women with COVID-19, severe effects of COVID-19 may be seen. Due to severe illness, special care, ventilator support or other equipment for breathing, and hospitalization may be required. The severe effect of COVID-19 is seen in pregnant women with certain underlying factors such as a condition, for example, diabetes, and gestational diabetes, cardiovascular disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and age.
COVID-19 and antenatal period
Data isn’t available on how COVID-19 affects pregnancy in the first trimester. Therefore, no comments can be made about it. However, it has been reported that transmission of SARS-CoV-2 from mother to the unborn child is rare.
Stress and anxiety can result from issues such as domestic violence for which women aren’t able to seek face-to-face support due to the pandemic. This may have an adverse effect on pregnancy. The anxiety and stress cause inflammatory pathways to turn on which is associated to neuropsychiatric conditions in the offspring. Also, due to COVID-19, the changes that occur in the body during the pregnancy may last even after pregnancy. This is a concerning matter.
The lockdowns and limitation of activities due to pandemic may have an effect on doctor visits. Taking a virtual appointment is a good solution. However, in high-risk pregnancies, seeing a doctor in person is more effective than taking a virtual appointment. Therefore, one should enquire their doctor in advance about the effect pandemic will have on their care. This ensures that the patient is well informed, prepared in advance and strategizes accordingly.
COVID-19, neonatal and perinatal period
The effect of mother’s positive status on neonate’s status isn’t clear. Studies present contrary results. In three scientific studies, mothers as well as neonates were positive but the neonates had mild symptoms or were asymptomatic. In other studies, mothers were positive but the neonates weren’t.
According to World Health Organization (WHO), the benefits of breastfeeding are much more than the risk of transmission of SARS-CoV-2 from mother to the child. This is because SARS-CoV-2 infection in neonates is mild and asymptomatic. A mother can breastfeed her baby by following appropriate precautions which are to wear double mask and wash hands with a disinfectant soap and water for 20 minutes before touching the baby.
Breastfeeding and being in the same room as mother are safe for the new born when appropriate precautions are taken. In one study, when breast milk was tested four times for the presence of SARS-CoV2, it tested positive for it. The genetic evidence of SARS-CoV-2 in milk is present but it is not clear whether the virus is alive when in breastmilk. In a study of 120 neonates of which 64 were breastfed and whose mothers were with COVID, 79 were tested after 5-7 days of birth, 72 after 14 days of birth and none of them were tested positive. The study showed that when appropriate protective strategies are followed, the perinatal transmission of COVID from mother to neonate is unlikely.
By keeping themselves aware of the knowledge, which is available now, pregnant women can prevent transmission of SARS-CoV-2 to their new born. The mother should sanitize as per the directions given by doctor or caregiver. She should not sneeze while she is holding the baby. She should use a mask when she is around the baby. She should sterilize the breast pump as advised. She should clean her breast before feeding the baby.
Risks during pregnancy
Due to COVID-19, the following risks may occur during pregnancy:
Effects of COVID-19 on fetal health
COVID-19 may have the following effects on fetal health:
Outcomes of pregnancy due to COVID-19
Following pregnancy outcomes may occur due to COVID-19:
Precautions to be followed by pregnant woman
A pregnant woman should follow the following precautions:
In addition to physical health factors, mental health should also be managed in pregnant women so as to not have an effect on the child. While more research is required, currently pregnant women are considered to be at a greater risk of COVID-19. By making use of the available information, pregnant women or new mothers can keep themselves and their child safe.
FAQs:
Pregnancy and Delivery while being tested COVID positive
A big question in recent times has been this: Is it possible to have a safe and healthy delivery even if the pregnant mother is tested positive for COVID? What should the expecting parents expect? What are some safeguards put in place to ensure the safety of the baby and parents? We throw light on the most commonly asked questions.
Is natural delivery possible even if I am COVID positive?
Yes, it is possible. At Bloom, we have delivered babies the natural way when the mother was COVID-positive. Our first preference is for natural delivery. In cases of unforeseen complications, the mother may be advised to go for a C-section – sufficient information and advice will be shared with both partners in such cases.  Â
If I test positive for COVID before my delivery, will my child be born with the sickness?
In our experience, in most cases, newborns do not carry the corona virus from the mothers. In rare cases, they may exhibit symptoms of COVID infections after some time, but this is treatable. Also, we do not have proof that the child’s physical and mental development (while in the womb) may be affected if the mother is COVID positive.
To be on the safe side, if the mother has tested positive for the COVID, we do recommend testing the newborn for virus as well. The tests are carried out 24 hours and 48 hours after the baby’s birth. The tests will not be painful or hurt your baby in any way.
Is it possible for me to visit my baby (COVID POSITIVE) if a stay in NICU is needed?
If the mother is also COVID positive she allowed to see and nurse the baby. If the mother is not COVID positive, she is not encouraged to be with the baby. The baby is given expressed mother’s milk till the baby recovers from COVID.
 If I am COVID positive even after delivering the baby how do I handle the situation?
You will be a happy parent! ? The pandemic does not in any way take away the joy arising from the miracle that is birthing a child – so enjoy every moment of your pregnancy and parenting journey.
You will be given sufficient guidance and advice about caring for your child post-delivery by our doctors. Mothers who have tested COVID-positive have been advised to breastfeed their child – this will help pass on essential anti-bodies from the mother to the baby. You would, however, need to wear a cloth mask at all times while tending to your child. Depending on your symptoms, you will be advised on the measures you need to follow once you are back home.Â
 If I am COVID positive, can my partner be in the delivery room when I’m delivering?
No. If your partner is not COVID positive he will not allowed to be present in the delivery room. If he is also positive then he will be allowed to be the delivery room.
 If I am COVID positive and have just delivered, how long would I have to stay at the hospital? Can I go home and be self-quarantine while I recover?
You may have to stay till the COVID symptoms are safe for you to go home. This will be advised by your physician and a home quarantine protocol will be taught. All precautious regarding medication and baby care guidelines will be given on discharge.
Dr. Kavitha Gautham is a leading figure in the field of obstetrics and gynecology, and reproductive medicine, with a distinguished career marked by excellence and compassion. She holds an MBBS from Annamalai University, an MS in Obstetrics and Gynecology from Sri Ramachandra Medical College & Research Deemed University, and a Diploma in Reproductive Medicine from University Schleswing-Holstein, Germany. As the Founder & Director of Bloom Fertility Centre & Bloom Birthing Centre and Medical Director of Bloom Fertility & Healthcare, Dr. Kavitha spearheads initiatives aimed at providing personalized and holistic care to patients.
With several years of expertise in gynaecological laparoscopy surgery, she has performed (approx.) 10,000 deliveries, 10,000 hystero-laparoscopy surgeries, and more than 5,000 IVF cycles to date. She is a Life Member of the European Society of Reproductive Medicine & Indian Society of Reproductive Medicine, All India Congress of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Obstetric and Gynaecological Society of Southern India, Federation of Obstetric and Gynaecological Societies of India, and the Indian Medical Association. She is a Fellow from the Indian College of Obstetrics & Gynaecology and International Medical Science Academy, and FIMSA.
Dr. Kavitha has been the recipient of several awards, including the prestigious J.L. Javeri Award (AICOG, 2005), Excellence in Healthcare – Infertility & IVF Treatments award (The Chennai City ICON Awards, 2019), WONDER FOGSIAN award (FOGSI, 2019). Additionally, she was the first doctor in South India to successfully conduct a water birth in a VBAC case.
Dr. Kavitha has also presented research papers at prestigious conferences including ISAR and IMSACON and has been published in esteemed journals such as the ‘Journal of Clinical Diagnostic Research’. Her commitment to public service is evident through initiatives such as conducting health camps in collaboration with organizations like the SMILE Foundation and raising awareness about reproductive health through appearances on radio and TV shows.
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Dr. Dheepa comes with a diverse background in obstetrics, gynecology, paediatric surgery and general surgery. With a Master of Surgery (MS) in Obstetrics & Gynecology from the Pondicherry Institute of Medical Science, Pondicherry, and an MBBS from Coimbatore Medical College and Hospital, Dr. Dheepa has consistently showcased excellence in academic and professional endeavors. She has gained expertise in various areas including antenatal care, intrapartum care, postpartum care, pelvic pain, menstrual abnormalities, and laparoscopic surgeries. Committed to advancing medical knowledge, Dr. Dheepa has also presented papers and conducted research, contributing significantly to the field.
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Dr. Nivedhita is a skilled obstetrician and gynecologist, holding an MBBS from Madras Medical College, Chennai and an MS (Obstetrics & Gynaecology) from Kilpauk Medical College, Chennai. She has been serving as an Assistant Professor at the Institute of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Egmore, Chennai, since 2022, and contributes to education and clinical practice. With a passion for research, Dr. Nivedhita has also conducted a significant observational study on thrombocytopenia in pregnancy, and actively participates in academic events and conferences. Proficient in Tamil and English, Dr. Nivedhita excels in patient communication and counselling. Her clinical interests span high-risk obstetrics, infertility, and minimally invasive surgery, ensuring comprehensive care for patients.
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Dr. Kousica is a distinguished obstetrician and gynecologist with a passion for research and patient care. After graduating with an MMBS from Sri Ramachandra Medical College and Hospital, Chennai, in 2017, Dr. Kousica pursued advanced studies, earning an M.S in Obstetrics and Gynaecology from Sree Balaji Medical College and Hospital in 2022. Complementing this expertise was a Diploma and Fellowship in Minimal Access Surgery (MAS) from World Laparoscopy Hospital, Delhi. With a focus on advancing medical knowledge, Dr. M. Kousica has authored impactful publications, including papers on pre-eclampsia and rare genetic disorders, published in renowned journals. She has also presented findings on infertility and reproductive health at prestigious conferences, contributing to the global discourse on women’s health. Currently specializing in infertility, Dr. Kousica is dedicated to providing compassionate care and innovative solutions to patients.
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Dr. Revathi is an Obstetrician and Gynecologist with a rich academic background and extensive clinical experience. She holds an MS in Obstetrics and Gynecology from Sree Balaji Medical College and Hospital, and has pursued specialised training in diagnostic ultrasound imaging from Selvi School of Sonology and reproductive medicine from Institute of Reproductive Medicine and Women’s Health, MMM Hospital. With a passion for research, Dr. Revathi has contributed significantly to scientific literature with publications in prestigious journals and presentations at national conferences. She actively engages in community health initiatives, participating in rural health camps in Chengalpattu and providing free gynecological services in Karaikudi. Her expertise extends to surgical techniques, obstetric emergencies, and patient counseling. Dr. Revathi is also a life member of FOGSI and ISAR.
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Dr. Kavitha Gautham holds an MBBS from Annamalai University, an MS in Obstetrics and Gynecology from Sri Ramachandra Medical College & Research Deemed University, and a Diploma in Reproductive Medicine from University Schleswing-Holstein, Germany.
As the Founder & Director of Bloom Fertility Centre & Bloom Birthing Centre and Medical Director of Bloom Fertility & Healthcare, Dr. Kavitha spearheads initiatives aimed at providing personalized and holistic care to patients.
With several years of expertise in gynaecological laparoscopy surgery, she has performed (approx.) 10,000 deliveries, 10,000 hystero-laparoscopy surgeries, and more than 5,000 IVF cycles to date. She is a Life Member of the European Society of Reproductive Medicine & Indian Society of Reproductive Medicine, All India Congress of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Obstetric and Gynaecological Society of Southern India, Federation of Obstetric and Gynaecological Societies of India, and the Indian Medical Association. She is a Fellow from the Indian College of Obstetrics & Gynaecology and International Medical Science Academy, and FIMSA.
Dr. Kavitha has been the recipient of several awards, including the prestigious J.L. Javeri Award (AICOG, 2005), Excellence in Healthcare – Infertility & IVF Treatments award (The Chennai City ICON Awards, 2019), WONDER FOGSIAN award (FOGSI, 2019).
Dr. Kavitha has also presented research papers at prestigious conferences including ISAR and IMSACON and has been published in esteemed journals such as the ‘Journal of Clinical Diagnostic Research’.
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Dr. Aravind Ravichandran is as a distinguished fertility specialist, bearing credentials from renowned institutions such as Christian Medical College and Monash University. He is well known for his expertise spanning reproductive endocrinology, ART planning, and gynecological surgeries. His commitment to advancing knowledge is seen through presentations at international conferences like ESHRE and Kolhapur Obstetrics and Gynaecology Society, where he’s delved into topics such as DNA repair gene expression and dietary patterns' impact on ART outcomes. He also serves as faculty at the Oasis School of Embryology. Dr. Aravind has been honoured with several prestigious accolades, including Sri T. Rajagopal Memorial Endowment and Dr. R.E.S. Muthiah Memorial Gold Medal. His publications in journals such as the Human Reproduction Open and Journal of Assisted Reproduction and Genetics underscore his dedication to research. Dr. Aravind interests also include areas such as male infertility and onco-fertility.
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Dr. Revathi is an Obstetrician and Gynecologist with a rich academic background and extensive clinical experience. She holds an MS in Obstetrics and Gynecology from Sree Balaji Medical College and Hospital, and has pursued specialised training in diagnostic ultrasound imaging from Selvi School of Sonology and reproductive medicine from Institute of Reproductive Medicine and Women’s Health, MMM Hospital. With a passion for research, Dr. Revathi has contributed significantly to scientific literature with publications in prestigious journals and presentations at national conferences. She actively engages in community health initiatives, participating in rural health camps in Chengalpattu and providing free gynecological services in Karaikudi. Her expertise extends to surgical techniques, obstetric emergencies, and patient counseling. Dr. Revathi is also a life member of FOGSI and ISAR.
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After graduating with an MMBS from Sri Ramachandra Medical College and Hospital, Chennai, in 2017, Dr. Kousica pursued advanced studies, earning an M.S in Obstetrics and Gynaecology from Sree Balaji Medical College and Hospital in 2022. Complementing this expertise was a Diploma and Fellowship in Minimal Access Surgery (MAS) from World Laparoscopy Hospital, Delhi. With a focus on advancing medical knowledge, Dr. M. Kousica has authored impactful publications, including papers on pre-eclampsia and rare genetic disorders, published in renowned journals. She has also presented findings on infertility and reproductive health at prestigious conferences, contributing to the global discourse on women’s health. Currently specializing in infertility, Dr. Kousica is dedicated to providing compassionate care and innovative solutions to patients.
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Dr. Arun Ganesh is a Pediatric Emergency Medicine specialist, with a STEP Fellowship and a Post-Doctoral Fellowship in Pediatric Emergency Medicine, in addition to an MD in Pediatrics and MBBS. He is skilled in various pediatric emergency procedures, including intubation, venipuncture, and neonatal resuscitation. With extensive experience across esteemed institutions such as Chettinad Hospital and Research Institute and Kanchi Kamakoti CHILDS Trust Hospital, he has demonstrated a commitment to excellence in academic and professional pursuits. Dr. Arun Ganesh’s dedication to advancing medical knowledge is evident through numerous paper and poster presentations at national and international conferences, as well as publications in renowned journals. He is also a certified instructor in Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) and Neonatal Advanced Life Support (NALS).
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Dr. Rufina. J is a compassionate pediatrician dedicated to providing comprehensive care for children's health and well-being at BloomLife Hospital. She is equipped with a solid foundation in pediatric medicine, holding an MD in Pediatrics from Chettinad Academy of Research and Education (CARE), Chettinad University, and an MBBS from Sri Muthukumaram Medical College and Research Institute, Tamilnadu MGR University. Driven by zeal for teaching and research, Dr. Rufina has completed advanced courses in Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) and Basic Neonatal Resuscitation. Her work experience spans from caring for children with minor illnesses to training in specialised areas like Pediatric Pulmonology, Nutrition, and Pediatric Neurology. She has also contributed to pediatric research with a dissertation on the utility of Lung Ultrasound in diagnosing pneumonia, published in the Journal of Neonatology – with findings on pediatric illnesses at national conferences, showcasing her resolve to advancing pediatric medicine.
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Dr. Selvendran Chelladurai is a dedicated Pediatrician and Neonatologist with extensive clinical knowledge and procedural skills. With a commitment to providing high-quality care, Dr. Selvendran aspires to contribute to the growth of organizations while working in challenging environments. During his tenure as an NNF Fellow in Neonatology at Sri Ramachandra Medical Centre, Chennai, he gained comprehensive experience in resuscitation, various procedures, ventilation strategies, and developmental supportive care for high-risk deliveries. He has also excelled in handling metabolic diseases and providing counselling to caregivers. Dr. Selvendran has contributed to the medical literature with publications like International Journal of Current Advanced Research (IJCAR) and International Journal of Contemporary Pediatrics, on topics like accidental levothyroxine poisoning and chikungunya in infants. He has also presented at prestigious conferences and seminars like NEOCORE and PAEDNATCON, showcasing their expertise and commitment to advancing pediatric medicine.
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Dr. Sayed Asarudeen is a skilled pediatrician with expertise in mechanical ventilation, central line insertion, chest tube insertion, and parental nutrition. With fluency in English, Tamil, Bengali, and Hindi, he ensures effective communication with diverse patient populations. Having served as a Senior Resident at NICY, Department of Pediatrics, District Hospital, Kolkata, Dr. Sayed gained invaluable experience in neonatology. He furthered his expertise through a Post-Doctoral Fellowship in Neonatology at Rainbow Children Hospital, Chennai, and National Neonatal Forum (NNF).
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Dr. Sayed Asarudeen is a skilled pediatrician with expertise in mechanical ventilation, central line insertion, chest tube insertion, and parental nutrition. With fluency in English, Tamil, Bengali, and Hindi, he ensures effective communication with diverse patient populations. Having served as a Senior Resident at NICY, Department of Pediatrics, District Hospital, Kolkata, Dr. Sayed gained invaluable experience in neonatology. He furthered his expertise through a Post-Doctoral Fellowship in Neonatology at Rainbow Children Hospital, Chennai, and National Neonatal Forum (NNF).
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Dr. Chittaranjan is a dedicated orthopedic surgeon, with an MBBS from Rajah Muthaiah Medical College & Hospital, followed by a Post Graduate Degree MS in Orthopedics from Madurai Medical College. Dr. Chittaranjan has been at the forefront of orthopedic care in India, with a notable career spanning prestigious institutions such as MAPIMS, MGIMSR, PSG Hospitals, and SRM Medical College. He has also served as an Associate Professor and Chief Orthopedic Consultant, contributing significantly to academic and clinical advancements.
In addition to being an accomplished researcher, with several papers presented at renowned conferences like TNOACON and OASISCON, his expertise encompasses a wide array of orthopedic procedures, including arthroscopy, joint replacement, spine, and trauma surgeries. Currently, Dr. Chittaranjan is engaged in ongoing research projects focused on innovations in fracture management, regenerative orthopedics, and tissue engineering for cartilage and meniscus regeneration.
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Dr. Harun Kumar is a skilled orthopedic surgeon who holds an MBBS from SRM Medical College, an MD Ortho from PSG Institute of Medical Science, and a DNB in Orthopaedic Surgery from BIRRD. With membership in the Indian Medical Association and Tamil Nadu Medical Council registration, Dr. Arun maintains high professional standards. Having served as a Junior Resident at MAPIMS and currently as a Senior Resident at ACS Medical College, he possesses expertise in trauma cases, hip joint fractures, amputations, and closed nailing procedures.
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Dr. Swarna Ganesan is an AYUSH physician, with a Bachelors of Naturopathy and Yogic sciences from Dr. MGR Medical University, Tamil Nadu. She is a registered holistic health practitioner for naturopathy and yoga under CCRYN (central council of research in naturopathy and yoga), Ministry of AYUSH, Government of India. Dr. Swarna completed her fellowship in clinical research under the National Institute of Naturopathy), Pune, and worked as Research Officer, Principal Investigator for 14 research projects corresponding to yoga and normal delivery practices, PCOD and other women health issues. She has published research papers in competent medical journals and presented her work in over 25 national and international conferences. Dr. Swarna is also a trained labour doula under CAPPA, and is well known for her commitment to helping mothers have a safe and positive birthing experience.
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Dr. Paul Rafson Jani is a dedicated Anaesthetist and Intensivist. Throughout his medical career, he has focused tirelessly on critical care procedures such as intubation, extubation, central and peripheral venous cannulation, tracheostomy, intercostal tube insertion, and ultrasound-guided regional blocks, Dr. Paul ensures comprehensive care for patients in critical conditions. His work history reflects a hands-on approach to patient management, from recording medical histories to administering specialised treatments and creating individualised treatment plans. Dr. Paul excels in team collaboration, research, and training, ensuring the highest standards of care. With certifications in ACLS and BLS, he is dedicated to maintaining excellence in patient care and emergency response.
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Dr. Vinu Bharathi Loganathan brings with her extensive experience from renowned institutions like Apollo First Med Hospitals and Karthik Hospitals, with a focus on diverse emergency cases. Dr. Loganathan excels in triage, assessment, and evidence-based treatment delivery. Her proficiency extends to procedural sedation, ICU management, and spearheading departments. Dr. Vinu Bharathi has been certified by the Royal College of Emergency Medicine (U.K.) and holds a Diploma in Emergency Medicine. She actively contributes to medical education, conducting workshops and training sessions, and has trained over a hundred paramedics in ACLS and BLS. With certifications in ACLS, BLS, and PALS and fluency in English and Tamil, Dr. Vinu Bharathi embodies flexibility, positivity, and strong judgment, ensuring optimal patient care.
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Dr. Kavitha Gautham holds an MBBS from Annamalai University, an MS in Obstetrics and Gynecology from Sri Ramachandra Medical College & Research Deemed University, and a Diploma in Reproductive Medicine from University Schleswing-Holstein, Germany.
With several years of expertise in gynaecological laparoscopy surgery, she has performed (approx.) 10,000 deliveries, 10,000 hystero-laparoscopy surgeries, and more than 5,000 IVF cycles to date. She is a Life Member of the European Society of Reproductive Medicine & Indian Society of Reproductive Medicine, All India Congress of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Obstetric and Gynaecological Society of Southern India, Federation of Obstetric and Gynaecological Societies of India, and the Indian Medical Association. She is a Fellow from the Indian College of Obstetrics & Gynaecology and International Medical Science Academy, and FIMSA.
Dr. Kavitha has been the recipient of several awards, including the prestigious J.L. Javeri Award (AICOG, 2005), Excellence in Healthcare – Infertility & IVF Treatments award (The Chennai City ICON Awards, 2019), WONDER FOGSIAN award (FOGSI, 2019).
Dr. Kavitha has also presented research papers at prestigious conferences including ISAR and IMSACON and has been published in esteemed journals such as the ‘Journal of Clinical Diagnostic Research’.
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Dr. Aiswarya Nair is a dedicated and accomplished general medicine practitioner with a passion for improving patient care. She is a gold medalist MD graduate from the Vinayaka Mission’s Kirupananda Variyar Medical College. Prior to this, she earned her MBSS from Rajah Muthiah Medical College Hospital. With a career spanning over a decade, Dr. Aiswarya Nair has held various academic and clinical positions, including that of Assistant Professor of General Medicine at Dr. Somervell Memorial Medical College and Hospital, and currently as Associate Professor at Sri Ramachandra Medical College and Hospital, Chennai. Her research contributions include publications on topics such as ‘Infection in the elderly’ and ‘Severe sepsis-related acute kidney injury’. Driven by a commitment to excellence, Dr. Nair seeks to leverage her expertise as a physician, aiming to enhance patient outcomes and contribute positively to the healthcare community.
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