Coronavirus and pregnancy: update

Pregnant women generally contract a mild form of COVID-19; the risk of complications is minimal if preventive measures are followed, vaccination is safe, and the virus has no impact on pregnancy outcomes or on IVF programs, including egg donation.

In light of new information from China regarding COVID outbreaks, an important question arises again: how does this virus affect pregnancy and the health of future mothers? The coronavirus affects the hematopoietic system and has a systemic effect on the human body. The consequences of the infection are still being studied, and knowledge about its various manifestations is gradually accumulating. Therefore, it is not surprising that pregnant women remain a focus of attention for specialists.

Life continues despite external circumstances. Many women wait a long time before becoming pregnant or are only considering it; therefore, supporting future mothers is extremely important. This journey can involve both natural conception and the use of modern reproductive medicine techniques, including IVF programs and egg donation. If a COVID-19 infection occurs during pregnancy, the key is to stay calm and act rationally.

Risks and Recommendations from European Specialists

According to European guidelines, risk factors for severe COVID in pregnant women do not differ from those in the general population. They include:

• being of Asian, Mongoloid, or African-American descent;
• age over 35 years;
• presence of comorbidities (diabetes, hypertension, obesity);
• occupational or lifestyle factors increasing infection risk (medical sector, educational activities, communal living, etc.).

More than two-thirds of pregnant women (according to various sources, between 74 and 86%) are asymptomatic. Among those with symptoms, the disease most often progresses in a mild or moderate form. The most common manifestations of COVID in pregnant women are:

However, pregnant women are less likely to present with fever and muscle pain than women of the same age who are not pregnant. The more frequent hospitalizations among pregnant women are related to a lower hospitalization threshold and increased medical attention rather than a more severe form of the disease.

Impact of COVID on Pregnancy and the Child

It has been proven that the only negative consequence of COVID during pregnancy is an increased risk of premature birth in the third trimester in cases of severe illness. However, even in these cases, it concerns only 17% of women with severe disease. In the absence of symptoms, the risk of preterm delivery is not increased.

According to observations of over 100 million women who gave birth after contracting COVID, no increase in congenital anomalies among newborns has been observed compared to the general population.

Vaccination and Protection of Mother and Child

Pregnant women can be vaccinated against COVID. Although no specific studies have been conducted in this group, they are not excluded from the general population. Vaccination is especially important in cases of high risk of severe disease, and the medical community recognizes its effectiveness and safety.

Mother-to-child transmission of the virus is extremely rare. It does not depend on the mode of delivery and does not require giving up early skin-to-skin contact, cohabitation, or breastfeeding. Breast milk is not a source of infection. However, the mother must strictly adhere to hygiene rules: wear a mask during breastfeeding, wash hands, and keep her environment clean. It is forbidden to put a mask on a newborn, as it can endanger their life.

Treatment of COVID During Pregnancy

Treatment is symptomatic. An individual is most contagious during the first 7 to 14 days of illness. After 5 to 7 days following symptom resolution, self-isolation can end. The PCR test can remain positive for up to 90 days, but this does not mean that contagiousness persists. Throughout this period, wearing a mask remains important.

It is recommended that pregnant women maintain favorable conditions: room temperature of 18–21°C, humidity of 50–70%, regular ventilation. Physical activity is permitted depending on health status. If oxygen saturation drops below 94%, if there is shortness of breath (more than 21 breaths per minute), or if heart rate exceeds 110 beats per minute, immediate medical consultation is necessary.

Since pregnancy is associated with physiological hypercoagulability, the doctor must monitor blood coagulation parameters. In some cases, anticoagulants are prescribed for at least 10 days after recovery. Two weeks post-illness, an unscheduled fetal ultrasound is recommended.

Pregnant women with COVID symptoms are hospitalized in a maternity ward where necessary examinations and fetal monitoring are provided.

COVID and IVF Programs

Modern reproductive medicine actively studies the influence of COVID on the outcomes of in vitro fertilization (IVF). Even during a pandemic, assisted reproductive techniques remain accessible and safe, provided medical protocols are followed.

Research shows that COVID does not have a direct negative effect on embryo quality and IVF results under controlled conditions. At the same time, it is recommended that patients who have contracted the disease consult a gynecologist-geneticist and undergo additional exams to ensure the safety of the procedure.

For women with reduced ovarian reserve or other medical indications, egg donation remains an effective method to achieve pregnancy. COVID does not modify the primary indications for this procedure, but special attention is paid to the health of the future mother and adherence to preventive measures.

In cases where both donor eggs and sperm are used, COVID does not impact the effectiveness of the program. Donors undergo thorough examinations, including infectious disease screening, ensuring the safety and reliability of the treatment. Thus, even during a pandemic, couples can confidently pursue parenthood through IVF with egg donation and dual donation programs.

Long-term Consequences and Observations

No direct link has been established between disease severity and long-term effects. Research on post-COVID syndrome ("long COVID") continues. Even in cases of mild infection, it is recommended to undergo ECG, vascular and kidney examinations, Doppler ultrasound, blood tests, and urine analysis.

A severe form of COVID has been observed in only 17% of symptomatic pregnant women. This further confirms that pregnancy or maternity projects should not be postponed due to the pandemic. It is important to take a rational approach, monitor health, and seek support from loved ones and professionals.

Conclusion

Pregnancy is the path to a new life. Even during a pandemic, it remains possible, bright, and full of hope. We wish all future mothers health, confidence, and joy!

In our blog, we also discussed the topic “COVID-19 vaccine and fertility: debunking myths (2025),” where we examined the most common misconceptions in detail and presented scientific data.