The Psychological Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Pregnant Women

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic has meant significant precautions and changes in delivering healthcare services. The aim of the study was to explore the lifestyle changes of pregnant women during the COVID-19 pandemic in Romania, the changes in prenatal care and delivery during the pandemic and the psychological impact on women and to determine how healthcare providers can help them to overcome this period. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted anonymously and distributed among pregnancy-related groups from Romania, recruiting 559 study participants, between May and October 2020. A total of 559 pregnant women completed an online 26-item questionnaire but we only validated 557 responses for study. The survey included basic demographic questions, pregnancy-related questions, questions regarding the pregnant women’s lifestyle changes during the pandemic and their perception of the COVID-19 pandemic and questions which evaluated the impact of the pandemic on prenatal care and delivery in Romania. Results: The pandemic restrictions affected women’s routine activities regarding professional, familial and social life. Therefore, for pregnant women who were emotionally vulnerable, these restrictions had a great impact on their mental health. The majority of the study participants (78.8%, N = 439) were emotionally affected by the pandemic. The fear related to the possibility of having their pregnancy affected by the virus was dominant in the group (45.8%). A high number of women (69.5%) felt safe when they accessed health services, but private hospitals were considered safer (53.1%) compared to public hospitals (14.4%). The majority of participants (53.7%) used to have prenatal care in a private healthcare system. During the pandemic, preventive measures were associated with low confidence in the healthcare system. Of the total group of participants, 123 women (22.1%) gave birth during the pandemic. Of these, a majority of the study participants considered that it was very difficult for them to cope without their partner during the hospitalization and labor period. Conclusions: The main anxiety of pregnant women were related to threats to their lives and their baby’s health because of the uncertainty caused by pandemic. It is important to know that the restrictions and the changes in maternity care had a negative impact on them. This conclusion must be taken into account when preventive measures will be decided for helping them to get through such a period. Additionally, psychological support will be essential for improving the mental health of pregnant women and for preventing a negative outcome of the pregnancy. These feelings must be taken into account when preventive measures will be established during pandemic and a psychological support will be essential for improving their mental health for preventing negative outcome of pregnancy.

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Psychological responses and lifestyle changes among pregnant women with respect to the early stages of COVID-19 pandemic

International Journal of Social Psychiatry ◽

10.1177/0020764020952116 ◽

2020 ◽

pp. 002076402095211 ◽

Cited By ~ 6

Author(s):

Yingfei Zhang ◽

Zheng Feei Ma

Keyword(s):

Mental Health ◽

Pregnant Women ◽

Maternal Mental Health ◽

Psychological Impact ◽

Well Being ◽

Lifestyle Changes ◽

Vulnerable Groups ◽

Event Scale ◽

Early Stages ◽

The Impact

Objectives: The COVID-19 pandemic has caused a profound impact on health and well-being of populations. However, there are limited studies that have investigated the psychological aspects of vulnerable groups including pregnant women amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Therefore, we aimed to assess the psychological impact of the COVID-19 pandemic among Chinese pregnant women from February 2020 until March 2020. Methods: Our study was conducted using a modified validated online questionnaire comprising of sociodemographic, the Impact of Event Scale (IES), attitude and mental health-related questions towards COVID-19. Results: A total of 560 women were included. The overall mean age and IES of women was 25.8 ± 2.7 years and 31.4 ± 13.7. Moreover, 67.1% of them had IES ⩾26. Psychological impact seemed to be more severe in women in second trimester of pregnancy (the highest IES) ( p = .016). There was a significant association between trimesters of pregnancy and some indicators of negative health impacts (including increased stress from work, increased stress from home, feeling apprehensive and helpless during the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic) (all p < .05). Conclusions: Our results reported moderate-to-severe stressful impact among Chinese pregnant women. We recommend that appropriate measures should be taken to address the maternal mental health issues.

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315. Prenatal Hepatitis C Viral (HCV) Screening Practices and HCV-Associated Fetal, Neonatal and Pregnancy Outcomes in a Large Regional Healthcare System

Open Forum Infectious Diseases ◽

10.1093/ofid/ofz360.388 ◽

2019 ◽

Vol 6 (Supplement_2) ◽

pp. S167-S167

Author(s):

Tripti Adhikari ◽

Rachel Scott ◽

Utsav Timalsina ◽

Ariunzaya Amgalan ◽

Shari L Sawney ◽

...

Keyword(s):

Risk Factors ◽

Prenatal Care ◽

Pregnant Women ◽

Behavioral Health ◽

Healthcare System ◽

Categorical Variables ◽

Opioid Use ◽

Screening Practices ◽

Hcv Screening ◽

In Pregnancy

Abstract Background Prevalence of HCV in pregnancy is 0.1–3.6%. AASLD and IDSA now recommend HCV screening in pregnancy although CDC, USPSTF, or ACOG still do not—though HCV can be perinatally transmitted and carries associated complications for the mother and fetus. Our study objectives were to analyze prenatal HCV screening practices at a large regional healthcare system and the prevalence of HCV-associated maternal and fetal/neonatal outcomes. Methods We performed a nested propensity score (PS) case–control study of pregnant women who tested HCV Ab+ in a cross-sectional study of women presenting for prenatal care at a large regional healthcare system from January 17 to December 18. We collected retrospective EHR data, including state of residency, HCV Ab, RNA, care engagement, HCV risk factors, comorbidities, maternal and fetal/neonatal morbidity, and neonatal HCV testing (when available). Mixed and generalized linear models were used to examine differences in continuous and categorical variables, respectively, between cases and controls Results 14,363 women were seen for prenatal care; 4,891 (34%) were HCV tested, 75 (1.5%) tested HCV Ab+. Demographic and comorbidity data are shown in Table 1. HCV Ab+ cases had more co-morbidities, including obesity, heart disease, opioid use, and behavioral health issues compared with the controls. HCV risk factors included IVDU (64%) and tattoos (24%) (Figure 1). Neither past/current pregnancy-related complications nor fetal or neonatal adverse events (Figure 2) were statistically significantly different except for cholestasis in HCV Ab+ cases (5.3 vs. 0%, P = 0.04). Conclusion Our study showed only one-third of pregnant women are currently HCV screened in our health system. Universal screening would likely increase the number of HCV-infected women identified. Early HCV detection, repeated testing, and behavioral health intervention of those at high-risk may decrease further horizontal and vertical transmission of HCV in pregnancy. Disclosures All authors: No reported disclosures.

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Perceptions, Uses of, and Interests in Complementary Health Care Approaches in Depressed Pregnant Women

Journal of Evidence-Based Complementary & Alternative Medicine ◽

10.1177/2156587216641829 ◽

2016 ◽

Vol 22 (1) ◽

pp. 81-95 ◽

Cited By ~ 10

Author(s):

Jennifer Matthews ◽

Jennifer L. Huberty ◽

Jenn A. Leiferman ◽

Darya McClain ◽

Linda K. Larkey

Keyword(s):

Mental Health ◽

Pregnant Women ◽

Lifestyle Behaviors ◽

Health And Wellness ◽

Physical And Mental Health ◽

Unhealthy Lifestyle ◽

Complementary Health Approaches ◽

Increased Risk ◽

Women’S Perceptions ◽

Study Participants

Depression affects up to 23% of pregnant women and is associated with adverse physical/mental health outcomes for both the mother and baby. Depressed pregnant women may be more likely to engage in unhealthy lifestyle behaviors that contribute to an increased risk for chronic disease. Little is known regarding depressed pregnant women’s perceptions, uses of, and interests in complementary health approaches. Study participants (mean age 28.7 ± 6.8; n = 1032) included pregnant women ≥8 weeks gestation who responded to a survey assessing physical and mental health and wellness practices. Of those completing the survey, depressed pregnant women (n = 272) had significantly higher levels of anxiety ( P < .001) and stress ( P < .001) and had poorer sleep quality ( P < .001), mindfulness ( P < .001), and social support ( P < .001) compared to nondepressed pregnant women (n = 760). A majority (84%) of depressed pregnant women would consider using a complementary health approach for weight and/or stress management during pregnancy, and more than 50% were interested in yoga.

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Pregnant Women and Malaria Preventive Measures: A Case of Tamale Teaching Hospital, Ghana

Journal of Tropical Medicine ◽

10.1155/2021/6150172 ◽

2021 ◽

Vol 2021 ◽

pp. 1-9

Author(s):

Abdul Rauf Alhassan

Keyword(s):

Pregnant Women ◽

Teaching Hospital ◽

Preventive Measures ◽

Malaria Prevention ◽

Bivariate Analysis ◽

Cross Sectional Survey ◽

Cross Sectional ◽

Preventive Practice ◽

Study Participants ◽

Tamale Teaching Hospital

Background. In Saharan Africa, an estimated 25 million pregnancies are all at risk of malaria every year, with substantial morbidity and death effects for both the mother and the fetus. Aim. To investigate the use of malaria preventive measures among pregnant women patronizing antenatal services of Tamale Teaching Hospital. Methodology. This study was conducted using a descriptive cross-sectional survey of 250 participants. Data analysis was done with SPSS version 20. Graphs and tables were used to present the study data. Bivariate analysis was done using Chi-square use to determine the relationships and binary logistics regression used for identification of predictor variables. Results. The mean age of the study participants was 30.0 ± 4.5 years and most of them (73.0%) were within the age group of 25–35 years. Respondents’ favorable knowledge, a favorable attitude, and favorable practice were 78.0%, 62.0%, and 57.6%, respectively. And the following variables were associated with malaria preventive practice: age of the respondent (X2 = 6.276, P = 0.043 ), religion (X2 = 6.904, P = 0.032 ), level of education (X2 = 41.482, P < 0.001 ), employment status (X2 = 20.533, P < 0.001 ), monthly income (X2 = 21.838, P < 0.001 ), and attitude level towards malaria prevention (X2 = 35.885, P < 0.001 ). Further analysis revealed educational level and attitude level as predictors of malaria preventive practice. Conclusion. This study recorded favorable knowledge, attitude, and practice with regards to malaria prevention among more than half of the study participants.

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Atendimento de gestantes na atenção primária a saúde pela enfermagem durante a pandemia do SARS-COV-2

Nursing (São Paulo) ◽

10.36489/nursing.2020v23i269p4723-4730 ◽

2020 ◽

Vol 23 (269) ◽

pp. 4723-4730

Author(s):

Mirelly Shatilla Misquita ◽

Patricia Gomes da Silva ◽

Geovana De Abreu Braz ◽

Anna Beatriz De Almeida Gomes Sousa ◽

Dilene Fontele Catunda Melo ◽

...

Keyword(s):

Health Care ◽

Health Education ◽

Prenatal Care ◽

Patient Care ◽

Pregnant Women ◽

Preventive Measures ◽

Descriptive Study ◽

Easy Access ◽

Nursing Professional

Objective: Describe the role of nurses in carrying out prenatal consultations during the pandemic within the scope of Primary the Health Care. Method: Descriptive study, an experience report. The same occurred in the period from March 2020 until June 2020 in the micro-region of the Sertões de Crateús, Ceara. Results: The nursing professional plays an important role in guiding the entire population, especially pregnant women, who are at risk and are still attending the unit with certain frequency. Under this bias, health education in times of pandemic has focused on preventive measures against the SARS-Cov-2 virus. Conclusion: In this way, the strategy used qualifies as a useful instrument with easy access and that generates impacts on the population. Enabling a continuous intervention in patient care, with regard to prenatal care, the spread of knowledge, acts in a way to promote health and prevent injuries.

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Your patient and weight-loss surgery

Advances in Psychiatric Treatment ◽

10.1192/apt.bp.111.008938 ◽

2012 ◽

Vol 18 (6) ◽

pp. 418-425 ◽

Cited By ~ 5

Author(s):

Tom Stevens ◽

Samantha Spavin ◽

Samantha Scholtz ◽

Lisa McClelland

Keyword(s):

Mental Health ◽

Bariatric Surgery ◽

Mental Illness ◽

Weight Loss ◽

Mental Health Professionals ◽

Weight Loss Surgery ◽

Psychological Impact ◽

Lifestyle Changes ◽

Morbidly Obese ◽

Reduction Methods

SummaryObesity is common in patients with mental illness. Weight-loss surgery, known as bariatric surgery, is becoming a familiar intervention for treating people who are morbidly obese and for whom other weight-reduction methods have failed. This article offers guidance for mental health professionals on the assessment and management of patients with mental illness undergoing such treatment. Assessment is of the patient's suitability for surgery, taking into account their mental health diagnosis, expectations, knowledge and insight into the psychological impact of surgery, and ability to address and cope with lifestyle changes before and after surgery. The patient's capacity and ability to cooperate and engage with services are also assessed. Potential risks and complications of bariatric surgery and how the weight-loss procedures may affect patients' mental health and management of their medication are addressed.

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The Effect of COVID-19 on the Mental Health of Healthcare Workers: A Systematic Review

Journal of Advances in Medicine and Medical Research ◽

10.9734/jammr/2021/v33i2131147 ◽

2021 ◽

pp. 183-194

Author(s):

Consolata Uzzi ◽

Bolaji Yoade ◽

Victoria Iyanu Olateju ◽

Mary Olowere ◽

Gibson Anugwom ◽

...

Keyword(s):

Mental Health ◽

Healthcare Workers ◽

Sleep Problems ◽

Psychosocial Support ◽

Psychological Impact ◽

Ptsd Symptoms ◽

Eligibility Criteria ◽

Self Harm ◽

Study Participants ◽

The Impact

Background: As COVID-19 pandemic continues to affect every nation, Healthcare Workers (HCW) who care for the patients are psychologically impacted. This study aims to assess the psychological impact experienced by HCW and the psychosocial support they received. Methods: Using PubMed, google scholar and Embase from December 2019 through June 2021, we found 376 studies on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the mental health of HCW. Using our inclusion criteria, 325 studies were excluded. 51 full-text articles were assessed for eligibility. 9 articles which met our criteria and eligibility criteria reported on 19,232 HCW, and 75.2% of the study participants were women. Results: The study participants reported high levels of stress, hypervigilance, fatigue, sleep problems, PTSD symptoms, poor concentration, depression, anxiety, burnout, emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, suicide and self-harm ideations and somatic symptoms due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The psychosocial support provided to HCW includes counseling and psychotherapy-based sessions on stress adaptation, onsite mindfulness-based crisis intervention, online form of emotional freedom technique, and Effort-reward system. Conclusion: Multiple interventions found in our review were effective in mitigating psychological stress among HCWs. These interventions should be considered as part of support provided to HCW with psychosocial challenges.

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The mental health crisis of expectant women in the UK: effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on prenatal mental health, antenatal attachment and social support

10.31234/osf.io/4328p ◽

2021 ◽

Author(s):

Maria Laura Filippetti ◽

Alasdair D F Clarke ◽

Silvia Rigato

Keyword(s):

Mental Health ◽

Social Support ◽

Depressive Symptoms ◽

Pregnant Women ◽

Psychological Impact ◽

Health Crisis ◽

Antenatal Attachment ◽

The Impact ◽

Unborn Baby ◽

Prenatal Mental Health

BackgroundExperiences of prenatal trauma exacerbates vulnerability to negative health outcomes for pregnant women and their infants. We aimed to examine the role of: 1) anxiety, depression, and stress related to COVID-19 in predicting the quality of antenatal attachment; 2) perceived social support and COVID-19 appraisal in predicting maternal anxiety and depression.MethodsA sample of 150 UK expectant women were surveyed during the COVID-19 pandemic. Questions included demographics, pregnancy details, and COVID-19 appraisal. Validated measures were used to collect self-reported maternal antenatal attachment (MAAS), symptoms of anxiety (STAI), depression (BDI-II), and stress related to the psychological impact of COVID-19 (IES-r). ResultsWe found that the pandemic has affected UK expectant mothers’ mental health by increasing prevalence of depression, anxiety and stress. Women for whom COVID-19 had a higher psychological impact were more likely to suffer from depressive symptoms. High depressive symptoms were associated with reduced attachment to the unborn baby. Whilst women who appraised the impact of COVID-19 to be more negative showed higher levels of anxiety, higher social support acted as a protective factor and was associated with lower anxiety.LimitationsThe cross-sectional nature of the study hinders conclusions about causality. Future research should include paternal prenatal mental health. ConclusionsDirect experience of prenatal trauma, such as the one experienced during the COVID-19 pandemic, significantly amplifies mothers’ vulnerability to mental health symptoms and impairs the formation of a positive relationship with their unborn baby. Health services should prioritise interventions strategies aimed at fostering support for pregnant women.

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The Prevalence of Psychological Symptoms in Pregnant Healthcare Workers (HCWs) and Pregnant Non-HCWs During the Early Stage of COVID-19 Pandemic in Chongqing, China

Frontiers in Psychiatry ◽

10.3389/fpsyt.2021.708698 ◽

2021 ◽

Vol 12 ◽

Author(s):

Min Liu ◽

Nan Li ◽

Xianghao Cai ◽

Xiaoyan Feng ◽

Rong Wang ◽

...

Keyword(s):

Mental Health ◽

Pregnant Women ◽

Healthcare Workers ◽

Online Survey ◽

Psychological Symptoms ◽

Early Stage ◽

Psychological Impact ◽

Emerging Infectious Diseases ◽

Obsessive Compulsive ◽

Cross Sectional

Background: Studies showed that healthcare workers (HCWs) and pregnant women bore the burden of mental problems during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. While, few studies have focused on the psychological impact of COVID-19 pandemic on pregnant women who work at healthcare settings. This study aimed to investigate and compare the prevalence difference of psychological symptoms between pregnant HCWs and pregnant non-HCWs during the early stage of COVID-19 pandemic in China.Methods: A cross-sectional online survey with anonymous structured questionnaires was conducted from February 15 to March 9, 2020. A total of 205 pregnant women in Chongqing, China were recruited. The mental health status was assessed using symptom checklist-90 (SCL-90).Results: Our sample was composed of 83 pregnant HCWs (mean age = 29.8) and 122 pregnant non-HCWs (mean age = 30.8). The results suggested the prevalence of psychological symptoms (the factor score ≥2) among all pregnant women ranged from 6.83% (psychosis symptoms) to 17.56% (obsessive-compulsive symptoms). Compared with pregnant non-HCWs, pregnant HCWs reported higher prevalence of psychological symptoms in 10 factors of SCL-90. After controlling the confounding variables, multiple logistic regression demonstrated that pregnant HCWs experienced higher prevalence of psychological symptoms of somatization (18.07 vs. 5.74%, p = 0.006, aOR = 4.52), anxiety disorders (16.87 vs. 6.56%, p = 0.016, aOR = 3.54), and hostility (24.10 vs. 10.66%, p = 0.027, aOR = 2.70) than those among pregnant non-HCW.Conclusion: Our study indicated that pregnant HCWs were more likely to suffer from mental health distress than pregnant non-HCWs during the early stage of COVID-19 pandemic. It is vital to implement targeted psychological interventions for pregnant women, especially for pregnant HCWs to cope with distress when facing the emerging infectious diseases.

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