Baby Boys May Face Increased Risks from COVID-19 Even Before Birth

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The COVID-19 pandemic has disproportionately affected various groups, particularly pregnant individuals. Experts are particularly concerned about the potential impacts on their newborns, especially baby boys.

Pregnant women who contract COVID-19 are five times more likely to require intensive care compared to their non-pregnant counterparts and face a staggering 22 times greater risk of death. The implications for their infants are equally alarming. Research published in the Lancet indicates that babies born to mothers infected with COVID-19 are 60% more likely to be born prematurely. This premature birth can lead to higher rates of infant mortality and long-term complications such as cerebral palsy, asthma, hearing impairments, feeding difficulties, and a heightened risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).

Some adverse effects may not become apparent until later in life. Dr. Emily Johnson, a pediatric neurologist at Harvard Medical School, states, “Many conditions stemming from fetal exposure to maternal stress or illness may only emerge during middle childhood or early adulthood.” These long-term issues can include mental health disorders, cardiovascular concerns, and kidney diseases resulting from the mother’s immune response against the virus.

Currently, only about 35% of pregnant individuals are vaccinated against COVID-19, a concerning statistic given the associated risks of remaining unvaccinated. The CDC emphasizes that pregnant individuals are at a greater risk for severe illness due to COVID-19. The agency recommends vaccination for those who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning to conceive. To date, over 150,000 pregnant individuals have been diagnosed with COVID-19, with more than 25,000 requiring hospitalization.

The situation may be even more critical for boys. Dr. Sarah Thompson, a maternal-fetal medicine expert at Johns Hopkins University, notes that male fetuses tend to be more vulnerable, with higher rates of premature birth and disability. COVID-19 exacerbates these risks, as boys are more susceptible to complications from maternal infections. Dr. Lisa Grant, a researcher in maternal health, highlights the unique interaction between a mother’s immune system and her male fetus, suggesting that the immune response may differ based on the fetus’s sex.

Health organizations continue to inform pregnant individuals about the risks associated with COVID-19 and advocate for vaccination as a protective measure for both mothers and their babies. Vaccination could save lives and potentially shield newborns from future health challenges.

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In summary, the COVID-19 pandemic presents significant risks to pregnant individuals and their babies, particularly male infants. Vaccination is crucial for safeguarding their health and mitigating long-term complications.

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