The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention now advise pregnant women who either have or are exposed to COVID-19 coronavirus may need to be separated from their newborns after birth for a week or more.

The new guidelines are intended to prevent the possible spread of the virus to the newborn, but is heartbreaking for many expecting mothers.

“Facilities should consider temporarily separating the mother who has confirmed COVID-19 or is a PUI (person under investigation) from her baby until the mother’s transmission-based precautions are discontinued,” the new guidelines read.

Exactly how long the separation is recommended varies based on the mother’s symptoms and her recovery time, but can be anywhere from 72 hours to 14 days, health experts recommend.

No one seems to know if pregnant women are at greater risk of becoming sick from the coronavirus or how the virus may affect newborns. Experts say they simply lack data to know definitively.

The CDC suggests doctors discuss the risks and benefits with the mother and that she be involved in making the decision.