Prevalence of COVID-19 in pregnant and postnatal women

What is the overall prevalence of COVID-19 infection, severe infection (WHO defined) in pregnancy/postpartum?

Are pregnant/postpartum women at increased risk of COVID-19 than non-pregnant individuals?

Diagram explaining prevalence of COVID-19 in pregnant women as detailed below
Prevalence of COVID-19 in pregnant women

Version 5: updated 29 November 2020

  • 10% of all pregnant women admitted to hospital were diagnosed to have COVID-19.
  • 73% of pregnant women with COVID-19 were asymptomatic.

The prevalence of COVID-19 in pregnant women admitted to the hospitals appears to be similar or lower than the general population based on available data.

(v5.0 last search update on 29 November 2021; findings may change as new evidence emerges)

Disclaimer: The findings have not yet been peer reviewed and the sources cited should be checked. Any views expressed are those of the authors and not necessarily those of their institutions and organisations.

Previous versions

Structured research question (PICO)

Risk of COVID-19 in pregnancy and postpartum
Population Pregnant/postpartum women All adult population at risk of COVID-19
Exposure SARS-CoV-2 Pregnancy and post partum
Comparator - Non-pregnant and reproductive
aged (women, all)
Outcomes COVID-19 (Confirmed, suspected)
Study Design Observational studies

Findings

Full details to be published shortly. Currently undergoing peer review.