Contracting COVID-19 in the first and second trimester of pregnancy: what we know – a concise qualitative systematic review

INTRODUCTION: Recent medical literature has drawn attention to the possible influence of COVID-19 on the course of pregnancies. As the coherence of results seems to vary, especially in relation to first and second trimester pregnancies, a concise qualitative systematic review can shed light on the most recent data. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A structured systematic search was performed to collect all COVID-19 pregnancy-related articles published between January 1 and September 16, 2020. Two independent reviewers evaluated studies using the STROBE statement in combination with the CERQual quality assessment of findings. RESULTS: In total 1387 articles were screened and finally 22 studies were evaluated (179 1(st)/2(nd) trimesters of pregnant women with COVID-19). The majority of reported mothers who contracted COVID-19 during 1(st)/2(nd) trimesters are yet to complete their pregnancy. CONCLUSIONS: Evidently a limited amount of data is available. Usually, mothers and newborns are discharged from the hospital without any serious complications. Further observations are imperative.