GLOBAL SYSTEMATIC REVIEW AND META-ANALYSIS OF FOETAL AND MATERNAL OUTCOMES IN PREGNANT WOMEN INFECTED WITH COVID-19

Abstract

This study aimed to systematically review the effects of COVID-19 infection on pregnant women and their neonatal outcomes in eight countries: UK, USA, China, France, India, Russia, Italy, and Iran. Data from various registries worldwide were analyzed, focusing on preterm births, maternal and neonatal mortality rates, and mode of delivery. The results showed that all countries experienced a significant increase in preterm birth rates among COVID-19-infected pregnant women compared to non-infected pregnant women. No significant difference was observed in maternal mortality rates across the countries, but India had the highest neonatal mortality rate. The rate of vertical transmission from infected mothers in the third trimester to their infants was estimated at 3.2%. In conclusion, COVID-19 has the most significant impact on the increase of preterm birth rates, with India experiencing the highest neonatal mortality rate compared to the other country.