Considering the effects of COVID-19 infection on the pregnant mother and
fetus; a review article
- Alexandra Rowland,
- Lukasz Polanski,
- Daniel Greaves,
- Miriam Baumgarten
Lukasz Polanski
Guy's and Saint Thomas' Hospitals NHS Trust
Author ProfileDaniel Greaves
Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
Author ProfileMiriam Baumgarten
Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
Author ProfileAbstract
COVID-19 has emerged as a new viral illness with potential for
significant morbidity and mortality. Pregnant women are high risk for
contracting the virus or suffering from complications, however data
regarding the effect of COVID-19 on pregnancy is limited to case reports
from affected countries. The pathophysiology of COVID-19 infection may
provide insights of the threat to mother and fetus. In this review we
collate available evidence of harm caused by COVID-19 to mothers and
their offspring in all trimesters. Obstetricians must understand the
risks posed by this pandemic to effectively counsel women who are
currently pregnant or planning conception.