https://orcid.org/0000-0002-5115-6182
Abstract
Background
Pregnancy-related coronavirus disease 2019 infection ranges from asymptomatic to very serious illness. This study aimed to determine the impact of the COVID-19 infection on pregnant women in the Jazan region of Saudi Arabia.
Methods
Retrospective observational study of women who had COVID-19 positive test in pregnancy admitted in King Fahd Hospital, Abu Arish General Hospital, and Sabya General Hospital, Jazan, Saudi Arabia during the period between March 2020 and March 2022. Data were extracted from the patient’s records. Frequency and percentage distributions were calculated for categorical variables. Descriptive studies and regression analysis were conducted to evaluate the association between selected variables and pregnancy outcomes.
Results
Of the 33 pregnant women with confirmed infection, the majority were in their second and third trimester, with approximately 42.4% requiring intensive care unit (ICU) admission and oxygen therapy. The most prevalent symptoms were high respiratory rate and low blood pressure, often accompanied by fever, cough, and shortness of breath. Live births resulted in 54.5% of the cases, while two maternal deaths were reported. Significant associations were found between the need for non-invasive ventilation and timing of infection (p = 0.026), the mode of delivery and timing of infection (p = 0.036), and the mode of delivery and body mass index (BMI) (p = 0.007).
Conclusion
COVID-19 poses significant risks to pregnant women, particularly in the third trimester, and emphasized the importance of early identification of high-risk pregnancies, strategic planning, and enhanced monitoring during antenatal care.
Data Sharing Statement
The raw data that support the results of this study is available from the corresponding author and will be provided upon reasonable request.
Ethical Considerations
The study was conducted in accordance with the Declaration of Helsinki, and approved by the Standing Committee for Scientific Research - Jazan University ((HAPO-10-Z-001)), Saudi Arabia. (Reference No.: 2223/351, Date of decision: 13 March 2022).
Informed Consent Statement
Patient consent was waived due to data collected from hospital medical records, ensuring strict adherence to confidentiality, privacy, and necessary approvals.
Acknowledgments
We would like to express our sincere gratitude to all those who have supported and contributed to this research. Special thanks go to our colleagues and mentors for their valuable insights, constructive feedback, and unwavering encouragement throughout the development of this paper. We also extend our appreciation to the Deanship of Scientific Research, Jazan University, for supporting this research through the Research Unit Support Program (Support Number: ISP23-47).
Author Contributions
All authors made a significant contribution to the work reported, whether that is in the conception, study design, execution, acquisition of data, analysis and interpretation, or in all these areas; took part in drafting, revising or critically reviewing the article; gave final approval of the version to be published; have agreed on the journal to which the article has been submitted; and agree to be accountable for all aspects of the work.
Disclosure
The authors declare no conflicts of interest in this work.