Abstract
Introduction: While SARS-CoV-2 infection is known to impact maternal health, the effects of infection timing during pregnancy on maternal and neonatal outcomes remain less well understood.
This study investigates the impact of SARS-CoV-2 infection timing during pregnancy on maternal and neonatal health outcomes.
Materials and Methods: Medical records of 254 women with SARS-CoV-2 infection treated at the "Queen Geraldine" University Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology were reviewed retrospectively. Participants were categorized into four groups by gestational age at infection: under 22 weeks, 22–27 weeks, 27–37 weeks, and 37–42 weeks. Outcomes assessed included miscarriage, fetal death, preterm birth, and neonatal birth weight.
Results: We found that the time of SARS-CoV-2 infection during pregnancy had an impact on the health of the mother and the baby. Early-onset infection (under 22 weeks) was linked to significantly higher rates of spontaneous abortion (31.3%) and fetal death (9.4%) (p<0.001 and p=0.017, respectively). Preterm birth occurred in 46.7% of pregnancies, and infection timing also influenced neonatal birth weight.
Conclusion: The timing of SARS-CoV-2 infection during pregnancy is a critical determinant of maternal and neonatal health. Early pregnancy infection increases the risk of complications, indicating the need for enhanced monitoring and individualized care strategies.
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