New paper provides best practice for managing monkeypox in pregnancy

A new paper published in Ultrasound in Obstetrics & Gynecology today brings together all available evidence on monkeypox in pregnancy to provide healthcare professionals and pregnant women with recommendations and advice on how to manage the virus.

There have been a number of cases detected in the UK and globally where cases have been gradually rising since the start of May.

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) says the risk to the public remains low, but encourages people to be alert to any new rashes or lesions.

The paper, written by a collaboration of researchers in obstetric and pediatric medicine, covers diagnosis of monkeypox in pregnant women and babies, treatment and recommended options for delivery.

Commenting on the paper, Dr. Edward Morris, President of the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists, said, "This paper written by leading medical experts synthesizes available evidence on the monkeypox virus and makes recommendations on what needs to be done to ensure a pregnant woman and her baby are cared for if they have, or are suspected of having, the virus.

"The World Health Organization states there could be adverse consequences for pregnant women and babies if they become infected, including congenital monkeypox, miscarriage or stillbirth, which is why we have provided clear guidance for healthcare professionals in this paper.

"We are aware infants and children are at greater risk of becoming seriously ill if they do catch monkeypox. Therefore to minimize the risk of a baby contracting the virus, we recommend healthcare professionals discuss the benefits and risks of having a cesarean birth with a pregnant woman or person who has or is suspected of having the virus."

Dr. Camilla Kingdon, President of the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health (RCPCH), and Dr. Helen Mactier, President of British Association of Perinatal Medicine (BAPM), said, "There is a shortage of information at present about the spread of monkeypox in the UK, and its impact on pregnant women and newborns. This paper is therefore an important source of information to aid clinicians at a time when the number of cases in the UK is rising. We would urge all pediatricians to familiarize themselves with its content as although the risks are low, there is important advice that can reduce the risk of neonatal infection. "

The RCOG, RCPCH and Royal College of Midwives (RCM) will shortly be producing a guidance resource for healthcare professionals.