Assessing SARS-CoV-2 Vertical Transmission and Neonatal Complications

Area of Science:

• Obstetrics and Gynecology
• Infectious Diseases
• Neonatology

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic raised concerns about maternal and neonatal health.
• Understanding SARS-CoV-2 transmission risks during pregnancy is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze maternal and neonatal outcomes in pregnant women with COVID-19.
• To determine the likelihood of fetal and neonatal SARS-CoV-2 transmission.

Main Methods:

• Prospective observational study of 889 pregnant women, with 76 diagnosed with COVID-19.
• Collection of samples including amniotic fluid, placenta, umbilical cord blood, and breast milk.
• Weekly monitoring of maternal samples and postpartum infant assessment.

Main Results:

• COVID-19 positive mothers had higher risks of gestational hypertension and preterm birth.
• Neonatal outcomes were generally good, with low SARS-CoV-2 infection rates (5.4%).
• No SARS-CoV-2 detected in amniotic fluid; low positivity in breast milk (1.01%).

Conclusions:

• SARS-CoV-2 positive pregnant women do not significantly increase infant infection risk via breastfeeding, close contact, or in-utero.
• Maternal-newborn separation at delivery is not supported due to low neonatal infection risk.