Preeclampsia In The Post-COVID-19 Era: A Narrative Review

Abstract

Preeclampsia is still a significant contributor to maternal & perinatal death & morbidity worldwide, particularly in the post-COVID-19 era. This study investigates new trends in preeclampsia among pregnant females attending the Obstetrics & Gynecology Department at Qena University Hospital. Preeclampsia, distinguished by new-onset hypertension following twenty weeks of pregnancy, often accompanied by proteinuria, represents a spectrum of hypertensive disorders in gestation, ranging from gestational hypertension to severe manifestations like eclampsia and HELLP syndrome. The research aims to assess the prevalence, risk factors, & results of preeclampsia in the context of post-COVID-19 influences, such as changes in healthcare access, immune responses, and socioeconomic factors. A retrospective analysis was conducted on patient records from 2020 to 2023, focusing on demographic characteristics, clinical presentations, and maternal-fetal outcomes. Preliminary findings indicate an increase in preeclampsia cases, potentially linked to post-COVID-19 inflammatory responses and delayed prenatal care due to pandemic-related disruptions. Key risk factors identified comprise advanced maternal obesity, age, and a history of hypertension, with a notable rise in cases among women with prior COVID-19 infection. The research highlights the requirement for improved screening protocols and timely interventions to mitigate adverse outcomes. These results underscore the importance of adapting obstetric care to address emerging challenges in the post-COVID-19 landscape, emphasizing early detection and management of preeclampsia to improve maternal and perinatal health outcomes at Qena University Hospital.