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Am J Perinatol 2020; 37(08): 773-779
DOI: 10.1055/s-0040-1710051
Review Article
Thieme Medical Publishers 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.

Considerations for Obstetric Care during the COVID-19 Pandemic

Sarah K. Dotters-Katz
1   Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina
,
Brenna L. Hughes
1   Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina
› Author Affiliations
Further Information

Publication History

06 April 2020

06 April 2020

Publication Date:
17 April 2020 (online)

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Abstract

The novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a growing pandemic that is impacting daily life across the globe. Though disease is often mild, in high-risk populations, severe disease often leads to intubation, intensive care admission (ICU) admission, and in many cases death. The implications for pregnancy remain largely unknown. Early data suggest that COVID-19 may not pose increased risk in the pregnant population. Vertical transmission has not been confirmed. Because no treatment, no vaccine and no herd immunity exist, social distancing is the best mechanism available to protect patients and health care workers from infection. This review will discuss what is known about the virus as it relates to pregnancy and then consider management considerations based on these data.

Key Points

  • COVID-19 severity in pregnancy is unclear.

  • Social distancing is the best protective mechanism.

  • No clear evidence of vertical transmission exists.

  • Mother/baby separation avoids transmission.

Keywords

COVID-19 - pandemic - coronavirus - pregnancy - vertical transmission - prenatal care
 

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