Time: 2024-07-14
A recent study published in the journal Obstetrics & Gynecology has found that about one in 10 women who acquire COVID-19 infection during pregnancy are likely to suffer from long - term symptoms of the virus . The study included 1,500 participants who had Covid during pregnancy , with 9.3 percent of them reporting experiencing long - term symptoms such as fatigue , gastrointestinal issues , and feeling drained or exhausted by routine activities . The findings emphasize the importance of understanding the linkage between Covid and pregnancy.
Researchers have highlighted the vulnerability of pregnant individuals to Long Covid , as the virus can lead to stillbirths and preterm births . The study revealed that long Covid is more prevalent among pregnant individuals infected with the virus than in the general population . Symptoms of long Covid , such as malaise , fatigue , and gastrointestinal issues , persisted even 10 months after the initial infection , indicating the need for ongoing care for pregnant individuals with chronic conditions.
The study , funded as part of the National Institutes of Health Researching COVID to Enhance Recovery Initiative , underscores the importance of conducting more research on how Covid affects pregnancy and its potential impacts on a developing fetus . Medical experts stress the need for obstetricians to be vigilant and keep an eye out for the symptoms of long Covid , which can overlap with pregnancy symptoms . The prevalence of long Covid in pregnant populations calls for increased awareness and monitoring by health practitioners.
The study has prompted a call for further research on the impact of long Covid on pregnant individuals , with the Biden administration announcing additional funding of 15 million over the next four years to study the condition . The initiative aims to recruit more participants , including children and pregnant individuals , to gain a better understanding of how Covid affects different populations . Medical experts emphasize the importance of ongoing care for pregnant individuals post - pregnancy to manage chronic conditions and ensure optimal health outcomes . The study 's findings shed light on the significance of addressing respiratory illnesses during pregnancy and highlight the need for specialized care for pregnant individuals affected by long Covid.