The COVID-19 pandemic has worst-hit all the aspects of society, especially the healthcare systems. A study published by Chmielewska B. et al focuses on the current maternal, fetal, and neonatal outcomes of the pandemic.

They compared the reports about maternal and perinatal mortality, maternal morbidity, pregnancy complications, and intrapartum and neonatal outcomes before and during the pandemic.  

From the pooled data, they observed-

Significant increases in stillbirth and maternal death during the pandemic contrasting it with before the pandemic.

Preterm births (before 37 weeks gestation) did not show any significant change overall but were reported less in high-income countries during the pandemic contrasting it with before the pandemic.

Spontaneous preterm birth was also decreased during the pandemic contrasting it with before the pandemic.

Mean Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale scores were reported to be higher, indicating poorer mental health, during the pandemic contrasting it with before the pandemic.

Increased cases of Surgically managed ectopic pregnancies were observed during the pandemic  

Other quantitative analysis as maternal gestational diabetes; hypertensive disorders of pregnancy; preterm birth before 34 weeks, 32 weeks, or 28 weeks gestation; iatrogenic preterm birth; labour induction; modes of delivery (spontaneous vaginal delivery, caesarean section, or instrumental delivery); post-partum haemorrhage; neonatal death; low birthweight (<2500 g); neonatal intensive care unit admission; or Apgar score less than 7 at 5 min, were not so significant during the pandemic contrasting it with before the pandemic.

Thus the authors concluded explaining worsening of Global maternal and fetal outcomes during the COVID-19 pandemic, with an increase in maternal deaths, stillbirth, ruptured ectopic pregnancies, and maternal depression. They also necessitated the urgent need for safe, accessible, and equitable maternity care within the strategic response to this pandemic and in future health crises.

Source: Chmielewska B, Barratt I, Townsend R, Kalafat E, Meulen JVD, Gurol-Urganci I, OBrien P. et al. Effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on maternal and perinatal outcomes: a systematic review and meta-analysis, The Lancet Global Health, 2021:9(6):e759-e772. https://doi.org/10.1016/S2214-109X(21)00079-6.