Maternal Anxiety and Its Associated Factors During the First and Second Wave of COVID-19 Pandemic in Serbia: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

The COVID 19-pandemic affects people differently, while pregnant women are among the most sensitive populations. The data about maternal mental health during the COVID-19 outbreak are in some ways consistent but also country-specific. Purpose:The study aims to explore the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on pregnant women's anxiety and identify its associated factors. Patients and Methods:This cross-sectional study included a sample of 358 pregnant women during the first and second waves of the pandemic in Serbia. An anonymous survey included basic demographic questions, pregnancy-related background questions, the question of self-reported COVID-19-related fear, State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI), and Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS). Results:The study revealed no pregnant women with low anxiety levels measured by STAI-T and STAI-S, while the STAI-S and STAI-T scores indicated high anxiety in 32.4% and 42.7% of pregnant women, respectively. The obtained results pointed out the nonlinear dependence of state anxiety on observed associated factors and their complex interactions, including the data collecting period. Conclusion:Our findings reveal that COVID-19 affects pregnant women's mental health and makes it necessary for psychological monitoring and support for pregnant women, which may be reflected in their mental health but also the development of their offspring.

Comparing Anxiety Levels during the COVID-19 Pandemic among Mothers of Children with and without Neurodevelopmental Disorders

“…This trend is also observed in children with developmental disabilities [63,65,71]. The increased anxiety levels throughout the COVID-19 pandemic were also reported in the general population [72], as well as the trend of higher anxiety levels at the beginning of the pandemic [73,74]. It is important to emphasize that psychological distress data may be particular to one country due to various lockdown measures implemented during the pandemic [75].…”

An exploration into the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on maternal mental health in high-and middle-income countries with a case study in East Sussex

“…We’ve been self-isolating…I can’t see why we can’t see family” (29). However, three studies note that some women appreciate the time they spent without their social network (5, 12, 49), “Women reported having a new appreciation for quiet moments, family time, and a slower pace. Some expressed appreciation for stay at-home requirements that allowed more time together with their partner and more sharing of parenting responsibilities” (5).…”