Preprint of Obstetrics and Gynecology Articles During and After the COVID-19 Pandemic

Abstract

: In this report, a brief historical overview of preprints focuses on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the distribution of preprints in obstetrics and gynecology, and the benefits and drawbacks of preprints are described. Preprints are manuscripts that are published before peer review. They are widely available even though they are recent in biomedical science. The COVID-19 pandemic enhanced the number of preprints prominently. It is known that 5% of all preprint articles issued during the pandemic were in obstetrics and gynecology. Some benefits include the increased pace of being available and the exposure rate. Also, it provides an opportunity to check for plagiarism and prevent malpractice earlier. Challenges to the distribution of preprints also exist, such as the potential lack of quality, premature data, and the possibility of misguiding normal people. Given the high importance of data release in obstetrics and gynecology, both the authors and the publishers should regulate strict yet rational guidelines before letting the information become widely accessible.