Respiratory decompensation due to COVID-19 requiring postpartum extracorporeal membrane oxygenation

Objectives: The Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has rapidly spread since its emergence in December 2019, and has been associated with severe morbidity and mortality. This report includes an in-depth discussion on the unique challenges that the obstetrical population provides when considering optimal management strategy. Case presentation: Wedescribe our approach to a preterm patient with high clinical suspicion for COVID-19 whose condition turned critical in the postpartum state. Conclusions: Differences in physiology during pregnancy, and goals for reducing both maternal and fetal risks, provide challenges when considering intensive care management, delivery timing, and method of delivery.