Publication:

Comparison of maternal outcome in COVID-19 positive and negative antenatal women: a comparative study

Background Coronavirus is an RNA virus causing respiratory and gastrointestinal infections. It caused SARS and MERS epidemics. In late 2019, a mutation called SARS-CoV-2 caused COVID-19, a severe respiratory illness. Pregnant women are at risk, but information is limited. The second wave affected pregnant women more. Maternal COVID-19 can lead to preterm births and caesarean sections. Vertical transmission to neonates is possible. Ongoing research is crucial to understand COVID-19's impact on mothers.

Methods A comparative prospective hospital-based study was conducted, including antenatal women with COVID-19 symptoms in the case group. The control group consisted of antenatal women who tested negative for COVID-19. The study analyzed 150 COVID-19-positive antenatal women and 350 COVID-19-negative antenatal women, excluding those who left the study prematurely or tested positive during the study period.

Results In the case group, no abortions were reported (0%), while in the control group, there was 1 abortion (0.29%). PROM occurred in 5.78% of cases and 1.43% of controls, with a significant difference. PPROM occurred in 2.31% of cases and 2.57% of controls, showing no significant difference. Preterm labor was observed in 11.53% of cases and 3.71% of controls, with a significant difference.

Conclusions Pregnant women with COVID-19 experience diverse symptoms, highlighting the importance of vigilant monitoring. Adverse maternal outcomes, including preterm labor and ICU admission, are more common in infected individuals. Managing comorbidities, such as diabetes, is crucial.