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A recent study published in the journal Obstetrics & Gynecology reveals that about one in ten women who contract COVID-19 during pregnancy are likely to experience long-term symptoms such as fatigue, gastrointestinal issues, and exhaustion in daily life. This new insight underscores the heightened risks associated with COVID-19 in pregnant populations.
The study involved 1,500 participants who had contracted COVID-19 during pregnancy. Six months post-infection, 9.3% of these women reported persistent symptoms, including severe fatigue, gastrointestinal disturbances, and an overwhelming sense of being drained by routine activities.
“Pregnancy and postpartum periods are incredibly vulnerable times, and this study provides crucial insights into the linkage between COVID-19 and pregnancy,” remarked Dr. David Goff, Division Director for the Division of Cardiovascular Sciences at the NIH’s National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, US.
The dangers of contracting COVID-19 during pregnancy extend beyond long-term symptoms. Pregnant women with COVID-19 face a higher risk of stillbirths and preterm births, making this a critical area of concern for healthcare providers.
To differentiate long Covid symptoms from those of pregnancy, a secondary study was conducted on women who reported symptoms more than 12 weeks postpartum. The results reinforced the initial findings, confirming that the persistent symptoms were indeed linked to long Covid and not merely pregnancy-related.
The researchers urged obstetricians to remain vigilant as the symptoms of long-term COVID can overlap with typical pregnancy symptoms. With the high prevalence of long Covid among pregnant populations, healthcare practitioners are encouraged to monitor for these symptoms closely.
This study highlights the need for increased awareness and proactive management of COVID-19 in pregnant women to mitigate long-term health impacts. As the medical community continues to grapple with the challenges posed by COVID-19, such findings are vital in guiding effective care for pregnant women affected by the virus.
