Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) Preparedness and Response

UNFPA Interim Technical Brief

• There is no current evidence of adverse effects on pregnant women from COVID-19. The
physical and immune system changes that occur during and after pregnancy should however
be taken into account. It is critical that all women have access to safe birth, the continuum
of antenatal and postnatal care, including screening tests according to national guidelines
and standards, especially in epicenters of the pandemic, where access to services for
pregnant women, women in labour and delivery, and lactating women is negatively
impacted.

• Keep the health system functioning: Maintain sexual and reproductive health and rights
(SRHR) information and services, protect health workers and limit spread of COVID-19.