The Delta variant of COVID-19 has been linked to an increased risk of stillbirths, according to a new study from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
The CDC released two new reports on Friday that show pregnant women could be more likely to experience a stillbirth if infected with the coronavirus’ Delta variant. NBC News reports the new information comes from doctors around the country who have seen the number of pregnancy complications amongst pregnant women who have the virus.
“We are seeing loads of pregnancy complications from Covid-19 infection,” said Dr. Ellie Ragsdale, director of fetal intervention at UH Cleveland Medical Center, NBC News reports. Some of the side effects include premature deliveries, loss of a pregnancy and more.
Medical officials say the number of still births have also risen amongst pregnant mothers; by .98 percent compared to .59 percent prior to the pandemic.
The study authors explained that “stillbirth” is still “a rare outcome overall,” but that a COVID-19 diagnosis has shown an increased risk of stillbirth with a stronger association during the period of delta variant predominance.”
