A Cohort Study Characterizing the Outcomes Following an Acute SARS-CoV-2 Infection in Pregnancy

Area of Science:

• Obstetrics and Gynecology
• Infectious Diseases
• Public Health

Background:

• Long COVID, a post-viral sequela, affects an estimated 6% of COVID-19 survivors.
• Pregnant individuals are a vulnerable population at risk for Long COVID but remain understudied.
• Understanding Long COVID symptomology and outcomes in pregnancy is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate Long COVID symptoms and adverse outcomes in a cohort of pregnant individuals post-SARS-CoV-2 infection.
• To describe the health experiences of a diverse, predominantly non-White pregnant population with COVID-19.
• To identify trends in Long COVID symptomology and associated adverse outcomes.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective evaluation of 150 pregnant individuals with a history of acute SARS-CoV-2 infection.
• Observation for Long COVID symptoms and assessment of adverse outcomes.
• Cohort included 64% identifying as Black and/or Latina, ensuring diverse representation.

Main Results:

• 26.7% of the cohort experienced at least one Long COVID symptom.
• Predominant symptoms included pain, mental health dysfunction, and fatigue, averaging two symptoms per patient.
• Increased frequency of adverse outcomes observed, with notable trends in treatment, vaccine status, and cesarean delivery rates.

Conclusions:

• This study provides foundational data on the Long COVID experience in a predominantly non-White pregnant cohort.
• Findings underscore the need for continued research into the nuances of COVID-19's impact on this unique population.
• Results contribute to a better understanding of Long COVID's effects during pregnancy.