Jihong Liu, ScD, explains how to improve perinatal outcomes in COVID patients

In a recent discussion with Contemporary OB/GYN, Jihong Liu, ScD, from the University of South Carolina, addressed how clinicians can improve patient outcomes for pregnant women infected with COVID-19.

Liu emphasized that the severity and timing of COVID-19 infection play critical roles in pregnancy outcomes. Specifically, moderate to severe infections, especially when contracted during the later stages of pregnancy, are associated with a greater risk of adverse outcomes. Therefore, she recommended that clinicians encourage pregnant patients to take preventive measures against COVID-19 throughout pregnancy, particularly during the third trimester. These measures include vaccination, social distancing, and wearing masks.

Liu also highlighted the importance of telehealth services, which became more accessible during the pandemic because of changes in insurance coverage. She advocated for the continued use of virtual visits via audio or video calls to maintain prenatal care during public health emergencies or other situations that may limit in-person visits. This approach not only provides medical support but also helps address social and emotional needs, particularly for vulnerable populations.

Looking ahead, Liu suggested that health care systems should prepare for future pandemics by enhancing access to care and social support for pregnant women. She also cautioned that the study's findings, based on data from South Carolina during a specific timeframe, may not be generalizable to all populations or regions.

Finally, Liu called for more research to explore the underlying mechanisms behind some surprising early pandemic outcomes, such as reduced rates of preterm birth and low birth weight. She proposed future studies to investigate different subtypes of preterm births such as elective, spontaneous, and medically indicated, as well as the role of COVID-19 variants and vaccination on perinatal health outcomes.

References

Sevoyan M, Liu J, Shih Y, Hung P, Zhang J, Li X. Associations of pregnancy timing relative to the COVID-19 pandemic, maternal SARS-CoV-2 infection, and adverse perinatal outcomes. Annals of Epidemiology. 2025;102:94-101. doi:10.1016/j.annepidem.2025.01.006