Perception of care and emotional impact of perinatal women during COVID-19: A multicenter study
Abstract
To evaluate in women in the perinatal period during COVID-19 the perception of the care received by the healthcare system, the prevalence and levels of anxiety and depression symptoms, the presence of post-traumatic stress, and its association with sociodemographic and maternity-related variables. A final sample of 559 women responded to an online cross-sectional survey, which included the Coronavirus Perinatal Experiences-Impact survey, the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory, the Beck Depression Inventory-II, and the Posttraumatic-Stress Symptoms-PCL5.
Most of the participants reported a negative impact of the pandemic on their general mental health, the need for social support, and high levels of state anxiety. The main concerns identified by women who experienced the perinatal period during COVID-19, and most associated with anxiety and depressive symptoms were: concern about future childcare, receiving support from health professionals, complications during pregnancy, and use of virtual support groups. It is crucial to prioritize psychological support for women in perinatal periods by creating a specific protocol to provide the necessary support and improve maternal care, especially during emergency crises or in groups with less access to social/health support.
Keywords: Maternity, Pregnancy, Mental health, Social support, COVID-19
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