COVID-19 can cause this problem in unvaccinated pregnant women

Much has been said about the risk of COVID-19 vaccines in pregnant women, but a new study finds a tragic risk for expectant mothers who are unvaccinated. Although rare, the virus can increase the chances of stillbirth.

The study, published in the journal Archives of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, found that COVID-19 can attack and destroy the placenta, which can lead to asphyxiation and stillbirth.

“We have never seen such a level of destruction from an infectious disease. It rendered the placenta unable to do its job,” said study leader Dr. David Schwartz to NBC News. “These fetuses and newborns died from asphyxia due to lack of oxygen.”

Photo by Ed Us via Unsplash

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While other viruses attack the fetus directly, COVID-19 appears to attack the placenta, limiting the oxygen babies should have. Researchers call this phenomenon “SARS-CoV-2 placentitis” and it is described by three factors: an accumulation of the protein fibrin, the death of cells in the protective layer of the placenta and an unusual inflammation in the organ.

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More and more studies continue to show the importance of COVID-19 vaccinations. Although this research was conducted on a small sample of women, it is important for a number of reasons. Pregnant women are more susceptible to infection due to their condition and should therefore do their best to avoid the virus.

The results of the study are also important as they may help prevent more of these situations and guide obstetricians to be aware of this particular condition.