Possibilities of vertical transmission of Covid-19 and the main maternal-fetal and neonatal complications: a literature review

Abstract

Objective: To present scientific evidence to the possibility of SARS-CoV-2 infection in Newborns (NB) by vertical transmission and to describe the main maternal, fetal and neonatal complications. Bibliographic Review: During gestation, SARS-CoV-2 infection can negatively affect pregnancy, since it increases the obstetric morbidity, the occurrence of preterm birth and the premature rupture of the membrane, which has repercussions on hospitalizations of neonates in intensive care unit (ICU). Given this fact, pregnant women are considered a group of risk to develop maternal and fetal complications from the diagnosis of COVID-19 during pregnancy. Final considerations: The main maternal-fetal complications of this infection include premature birth, miscarriage, preeclampsia, pneumonia, fetal prematurity, intrauterine fetal distress, low birth weight, neonatal asphyxia, perinatal death and stillbirth. As it is a still unknown pathology, emerging studies are needed to identify and early reduce its risks during pregnancy exposure to SARS-CoV-2, as well as to guide pregnant women during prenatal care.