| dc.description.abstract | This review contains an in-depth analysis of COVID-19 and its effect on pregnant women and their neonates. Specifically, the following topics are included: how COVID-19 in pregnant women affects newborns, the risk of the virus passing from mother to baby, and the impact on both mother and baby when the mother is vaccinated. Out of 370 studies, 48 relevant studies were closely examined. Key findings showed that pregnant women with COVID-19 faced more risks, such as complications in pregnancy, and their babies had a higher likelihood of being born prematurely, having low birth weight, or needing care in a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU).
The risk of a mother passing COVID-19 to her baby during pregnancy (known as vertical transmission) varied by study, with some showing very low to no transmission, and other studies even showing some risks, such as preterm birth. Pregnant women with COVID-19 were also more likely to develop conditions like gestational diabetes, high blood pressure, and longer recovery times after giving birth.
The review also looked at how well COVID-19 vaccination during pregnancy protects both mother and baby. Vaccinated mothers could pass COVID-19 antibodies to their babies through the placenta, especially when vaccinated closer to delivery. Several studies also showed breastfeeding was safe and helpful, as breast milk did not transmit the virus to the baby, and even contained antibodies against it.
Overall, the study supported COVID-19 vaccination as safe and effective for pregnant women, with fewer infections and complications among those vaccinated. Though rare severe reactions were noted, these findings underline the need for continued research to monitor safety fully. This review highlights the effects of COVID-19 in pregnancy and the connection between mother-neonate dyads regarding immunity transfer, vaccine efficacy and safety, and clinical outcomes in both mothers and neonates. | |
