Guidelines and practice recommendations on Obstetric care of pregnant patients with Covid-19 infection: Scoping review.
Abstract Introduction: The Management of pregnant women with Covid-19 infection is usually based on limited evidence from care reports and expert opinions. The aim of this scoping review is to identify available guidelines and practice recommendations on obstetric care of pregnant women with COVID-19.Methods: We searched guideline databases and websites of professional associations and international organizations working on sexual and reproductive health. We looked for guidelines, protocols, consensus statements and practice recommendations on management of pregnant women with COVID-19. Additionally, we searched: MEDLINE, EMBASE and Google Scholar. Data extraction was done by two independent reviewers using a customized tool that was developed to record the key information of the source that’s relevant to the review question.Results: The antenatal care for covid-19 positive mothers should be delayed until they test negative twice. Anatomic scanning may be considered in women who had the infection in the first trimester. Growth monitoring is recommended every 2-4wks. Antenatal corticosteroids can be administered in those women with preterm pregnancy (<34 wks) and mild illness. Low dose Aspirin can be continued safely. Tocolytics, particularly NSAIDs should be used cautiously. Covid-19 infection is not an indication for delivery. Termination is recommended in those with organ failure and in pts with severe respiratory failure. A single, asymptomatic or screen negative birth partner be permitted to stay with the woman. Continuous electronic fetal monitoring in labor is recommended. Cesarean delivery only in those with severe respiratory distress on ventilators & organ failure. Shortening of the second stage is considered in Covid-19 parturients who are on face masks. There are no consistent recommendations on immediate cord clamping and options of breast feeding. Universal isolation of mother from the neonate is not a standard of practice. Postpartum care can be provided with telemedicine.Conclusions: Obstetric care provision for Covid-19 infected mothers is primarily based on limited experience from case reports and expert opinions. Updated guidance for clinical practice are imperative as new scientific evidence emerges.