Prevention and practice during the COVID-19 emergency declaration period in Japanese obstetrical/gynecological facilities

Aim: A nationwide questionnaire survey was performed to evaluate how Japanese Society of Obstetrics and Gynecology (JSOG) members dealt with the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic during the declared nationwide emergency. Methods: We sent questionnaires to members of JSOG via official email. Participants answered anonymously using Google forms. Results: Two (0.08%) JSOG members had contracted COVID-19. There was a clear decrease in the number of patients scheduled for operation, not only for malignant but also for benign diseases. A decrease in the number of outpatients for infertility treatment was also observed. Polymerase chain reaction testing for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 was available in 20.4% of the facilities. Inpatients and outpatients were requested to wear masks, limit the number of contacts and check body temperature when visiting hospitals/clinics. During parturition care, caregivers and physicians wore gloves, masks (other than N-95), face shields and gowns. About 66% and 80% of the facilities decided to transfer pregnant women if they had asymptomatic and symptomatic infection, respectively. Cesarean section was typically chosen as delivery mode in infected women. Conclusion: The COVID-19 pandemic provoked significant changes in obstetrics and gynecology practices in Japan. Apparently, nosocomial infections were largely prevented due to these changes, although some of them might not have been necessary.