ABSTRACT
Introduction: The global pandemic caused by the novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2), commonly known as COVID-19, has had profound effects at every level of society. Other known viral illnesses during pregnancy, such as cytomegalovirus, can affect the developing fetus and cause congenital hearing loss. The long-term effects of COVID-19, including the risk of congenital hearing loss, are not currently established. Method(s): A retrospective cohort study was performed at a quaternary care facility. Sixty-four consecutive patients with a COVID-19 infection during pregnancy were identified. Charts were reviewed for trimester of positive COVID-19 test, maternal and neonatal comorbidities, symptomatology, vaccination status, and results of newborn screening and follow-up hearing testing, if performed. Result(s): Sixty-four women with positive COVID-19 test during pregnancy (6 in second trimester, 59 in third trimester) were identified. Most (n=54, 84.4%) patients were asymptomatic at time of positive test and 29.7% (n=19) had received at least 1 dose of a COVID-19 vaccine. Newborn hearing screening was performed in 58 patients (90.6%). Failed initial screening occurred in 3 (5.2%) right ears and 4 (7.0%) left ears. Two patients passed on repeat screening, and the remaining 1 patient was found to have a mild conductive hearing loss in the right and middle ear dysfunction on the left. Conclusion(s): This study demonstrates no significant increased risk of congenital hearing loss in prenatal COVID-19 infection. Additional investigation into timing of infection and effect of vaccination status will be performed to provide guidance to women navigating pregnancy during the pandemic.