Maternal and neonatal response to COVID-19

Area of Science:

• Obstetrics and Gynecology
• Infectious Diseases
• Neonatal Health

Background:

• The health implications of SARS-CoV-2 infection during pregnancy are not fully understood.
• Existing data suggest pregnancy does not usually worsen SARS-CoV-2 disease severity.
• Infrequent reports link SARS-CoV-2 to preeclampsia and preterm birth.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effects of SARS-CoV-2 on maternal and newborn health.
• To review the incidence of severe maternal outcomes and vertical transmission.
• To examine placental morphology in SARS-CoV-2 infected pregnancies.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing case reports and literature on SARS-CoV-2 in pregnancy.
• Analysis of reported maternal and neonatal outcomes.
• Examination of placental pathology findings.

Main Results:

• Pregnancy typically does not increase SARS-CoV-2 disease severity.
• Preeclampsia and preterm birth are infrequently reported complications.
• Placental infection and vertical transmission are rare, but placental abnormalities are noted.
• Abnormalities in placenta morphology are observed even without detectable SARS-CoV-2 infection.

Conclusions:

• Further research is crucial to fully determine SARS-CoV-2 risks for maternal and newborn health.
• Understanding placental changes and their impact is important.
• Continued monitoring of pregnant women with SARS-CoV-2 and their infants is vital.