Importance
There is great concern about the impact of COVID-19 in pregnancy due to the high morbidity and mortality associated with prior coronavirus infections.
Objective
The objective of this review is to summarize the current literature on the impact of COVID-19 on pregnant women and their newborns.
Evidence Acquisition
The search terms COVID-19 and pregnancy were used in Medline and Clinical Key databases. Only articles written in English with outcome data on both mothers and their newborns were incorporated.
Results
Pregnant women generally experience COVID-19 as a mild-moderate illness. However, approximately 5% become critically ill. Women with underlying comorbidities seem more likely to experience severe morbidity. Newborns also generally have a favorable course.
Vertical transmission in the intrauterine period is possible but rare. Infection control measures need to be taken to prevent transmission during the peripartum period. There is a paucity of data on infections in the first and second trimesters, but research from those infected in the third trimester indicates a possible link with preterm birth. There is a significant percentage of asymptomatic cases. Racial disparities are also being noted with disproportionate numbers of racial/ethnic minorities being affected.
Conclusions
COVID-19 is generally experienced by pregnant women and their newborns as a mild to moderate illness, although a minority become critically ill and mortality does occur. This is more likely among those with underlying comorbidities, as in the general population. Asymptomatic cases heighten the need for increased testing and infection control measures. Racial disparities highlight underlying vulnerabilities and the need for increased research and policy changes.
Target Audience
Obstetricians and gynecologist, family physicians
Learning Objectives
After completing this activity, the reader should be better able to describe clinical presentations of pregnant women who contract COVID-19; explain the risks associated with maternal morbidity and mortality with COVID-19 infections; outline the risks of vertical transmission and neonatal outcomes of pregnant women with COVID-19 infections; and identify racial/ethnic disparities among pregnant women with COVID-19.
