Chinese scientists from Jining Medical University described how the coronavirus affects the reproductive system of women.
According to doctors, on the surface of the ovaries, uterus and female organs there are cells of the ACE2 protein, the very one to which the spines of the coronavirus cling and through which COVID-19 enters the cells of the body. Therefore, scientists came to the conclusion: a woman’s reproductive organs can also become infected, transmitting the virus from mother to fetus.
Chinese doctors have figured out how the ACE2 protein is distributed in the reproductive system. It turned out that ACE2 is actively involved in the synthesis of tissues of the uterus, ovaries, placenta and vagina, ensuring the growth and development of cells. This protein plays an important role in the maturation of follicles and during ovulation, affects the mucous tissues of the uterus and the development of the embryo.
“Coronavirus, by changing the cells of the ACE2 protein, can disrupt female reproductive functions, which means, in theory, lead to infertility,” the doctors say in their work published on the portal. … “However, for more accurate conclusions, long-term follow-up of young women with COVID-19 is required.”
However, Russian scientists are in no hurry with such conclusions.
So far there is no convincing evidence that the coronavirus affects the reproductive system and can cause infertility, ” Rospotrebnadzor experts comment on the statement of Chinese doctors.
The transmission of the virus from mother to fetus has also been questioned. So, the Russian Ministry of Health has recently released new recommendations for the treatment of pregnant women from coronavirus. The authors of the document emphasize:
“It is not yet known whether a woman with a confirmed coronavirus infection can transmit the virus to her baby during pregnancy or childbirth, and whether the virus can be transmitted during breastfeeding. According to the statistics available now, a child can get a new type of coronavirus after birth, as a result of close contact with patients. “
However, the coronavirus may become an indication for early termination of pregnancy, since most drugs that are used to treat seriously ill COVID-19 are contraindicated in pregnancy.
“The main indication for early termination of pregnancy is the severity of the condition of the pregnant woman against the background of the lack of effect of the therapy,” the Ministry of Health said in a document.
Among the complications that occur in pregnant women with coronavirus: 39% – premature birth, 10% – fetal growth retardation, 2% – miscarriage. In addition, doctors note that Cesarean sections have become more frequent for pregnant women with COVID-19.