Can the coronavirus affect the unborn baby?
Vertical transmission of SARS-CoV-2 to the fetus occurs in approximately 2% to 3% of cases.
While early pandemic reports were uncertain, we now know that the virus can cross the placenta. Most newborns diagnosed with the infection are asymptomatic or experience only mild symptoms. Severe outcomes are typically limited to premature infants or those with existing health conditions. Data from 2024 and 2025 confirm that the risk of major birth defects remains low despite the infection. Check it yourself by visiting our guide on coronavirus and pregnancy.
How does COVID-19 impact the course of pregnancy?
Infected pregnant women face a 1.5 times higher risk of preterm birth compared to their healthy peers.
Symptomatic infection often leads to medical interventions like induced labor or cesarean sections. Every third pregnant patient with severe symptoms may require specialized respiratory support. Recent longitudinal studies show that while spontaneous abortions have not increased, placental inflammation is a real concern. This can help you understand the importance of monitoring fetal growth during recovery. Oto jak to działa: the virus affects the vascular system, which sometimes impacts nutrient delivery to the baby.
What are the main risks for severe disease in mothers?
The presence of co-morbidities like obesity or gestational diabetes doubles the risk of intensive care admission.
Age also plays a significant role, particularly for women over 40. These factors make the body less resilient to respiratory distress caused by the virus. Statistics suggest that 1 in 10 pregnant women with multiple risk factors may experience complications. No i tyle.
| Risk Factor | Impact Level | Observed Frequency |
| Obesity (BMI > 30) | High | Every fourth patient |
| Age > 40 | Moderate | Every tenth patient |
| Gestational Diabetes | High | Every fifth patient |
Are COVID-19 vaccines safe for pregnant women?
Clinical data from millions of pregnancies show that mRNA vaccines are safe and do not increase the risk of miscarriage.
Modern vaccines provide passive immunity by transferring protective antibodies through the placenta to the baby. This protection is vital because pregnant women are a high-risk group for severe respiratory failure. Major health organizations like the WHO and CDC strongly recommend vaccination in every trimester. This can help you protect both yourself and your child before birth. Check the latest data on the vaccination pillar page.
What are the most common symptoms in pregnant patients?
Fever and cough remain the primary indicators of infection in 80% of symptomatic pregnant women.
Expectant mothers often report milder symptoms than non-pregnant women of the same age. Shortness of breath and muscle pain are less frequent but require immediate medical attention if they appear. Loss of taste and smell is less common with newer variants in 2026. If you notice these signs, refer to the list of observed symptoms in patients.
How to protect yourself from infection during pregnancy?
Standard hygiene protocols combined with up-to-date vaccination provide the most effective defense.
- Wash your hands with soap for at least 20 seconds frequently.
- Use alcohol-based disinfectants with at least 60% concentration.
- Wear high-quality masks in crowded indoor spaces to reduce viral load.
- Maintain a healthy diet to support your immune system during the third trimester.
Oto jak to działa: a layered defense strategy minimizes the chance of the virus reaching your respiratory system. You should also consult your doctor about tailored dietary recommendations after COVID-19 to strengthen your body.
What should you do if you test positive?
Isolate immediately and monitor your oxygen levels to ensure they stay above 95%.
Notify your obstetrician to discuss potential adjustments to your prenatal care plan. Most cases can be managed at home with hydration and rest. However, significant hypoxia or chest pain requires an immediate hospital visit. You can compare different diagnostic methods on our page regarding COVID-19 tests. Sprawdź sam which option is best for your current situation.
Can you breastfeed if you have the virus?
Breastfeeding is encouraged because it transfers essential antibodies to the newborn.
The virus is not typically found in breast milk, making the process safe for the baby. Mothers should wear a mask during feeding to prevent respiratory droplet transmission. This can help you maintain a strong bond while keeping the infant protected. Detailed instructions are available in our breastfeeding and coronavirus guide.