Abstract

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic emphasize the global challenge of inadequate data on SARS-CoV-2’s effects on pregnant women and their infants. In response, Kerala, along with other states of India launched a wide study to assess the incidence, characteristics, and outcomes of SARS-CoV-2 infection during pregnancy. Methods: We conducted an observational descriptive study of SARS-CoV-2 positive cases among pregnant women. In collaboration with the Public Health Office Kottayam, Kerala, we identified 400 pregnant women who tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 and contacted them for participation. Results: Among the 240 participating SARS-CoV-2-positive pregnant women, 13 required hospitalizations, with an increased need for intensive care and respiratory support. A symptomatic course was dominant, with fatigue (70%), headache (58%), and fever (56%) as the leading symptoms. While maternal and neonatal outcomes were generally favorable, a slight increase in caesarean sections and preterm births suggests an indirect impact on maternity care. Vaccination during pregnancy connected with reduced symptoms and no hospitalizations. High CRP levels were common among infected women, while ultrasound findings remained normal. Conclusions: This study offers a multi- dimensional view of pregnancy during COVID-19. The findings suggest that most pregnant women with SARS-CoV-2 experience mild to moderate illness, offering reassurance to clinicians about generally favorable maternal and neonatal outcomes while underscoring the need for vigilance in rare severe cases.