Journal of Neonatal Biology

COVID 19 - Effects on Pregnancy, and the Newborn

International Conference and Expo on NEONATOLOGY AND PERINATOLOGY

May 04-05, 2023 | Amsterdam, Netherlands

Marla K. Conley

Emory Hospital Midtown, USA

Scientific Tracks Abstracts: J Neonatal Biol

Abstract:

Reports and research show that pregnant and recently pregnant women have a higher risk of more severe illness from COVID-19 than nonpregnant women. Health condition such as obesity, hypertension and diabetes put the woman at even higher risk. Increased risk of coagulopathy is often the causative factor. Emerging variants of SARSCoV- 2 virus pose differing challenges. Newer variants have been associated with an increase in ICU admissions, an increase in invasive ventilation and ECMO, and an increased number of deaths than was previously reported in the pre-Delta period (January 1, 2020 – June 26, 2021). All COVID 19 infection during pregnancy has shown to be associated with increased risk of preterm birth, still birth and infant admissions to neonatal intensive care (NICU). New vaccines against the novel Corona virus has been proven safe and effective against severe illness in this patient population. Prenatal care may need to alter somewhat for those women diagnoses with COVID 19. Considerations include closer monitoring with BPP and fetal scans to monitor growth and well being of the fetus. Prescribing baby aspirin has been considered for higher risk pregnancies. It is not common for parents with COVID-19 to spread the virus to their newborn baby. Some newborns have tested positive for COVID-19 shortly after birth. Most newborns who have tested positive for COVID-19 had mild or no symptoms and recovered. There have been a few reports of newborns who got very sick from COVID-19. As of date, the most risk for newborns is associated with the increase of preterm births. Breast milk is the best source of nutrient for babies and studies suggest that COVID 19 does not pass through breast milk and does not cause infection in the baby and might provide passive immunity. Antibodies have been found in babies whose Mother’s have had the vaccine &/or COVID-19 infection. For this reason, breast feeding is strongly recommended.

Biography :

Marla K. Conley is a board certified Neonatal Nurse Practitioner. She is an experienced nursing professional in nursing education and nursing management.