Perinatal Mental Health during COVID-19 Pandemic: An Integrative Review and Implications for Clinical Practice

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic and measures implemented to decelerate its spread have consequences for mental health of societies. The aim of our review was to analyze depressive and anxiety symptoms in perinatal women. The search used PubMed and Web of Science databases. Most studies showed an increase in the prevalence of depression and/or anxiety symptoms. Risk factors identified in our study were mainly related to the possibility of COVID-19 infection, changes in the organization of perinatal care, social isolation and financial problems. Protective factors included social support, the woman’s own activity and knowledge about COVID-19. The results of our study point to the importance of the mental health screening including suicide risk assessment in perinatal women. Much of the mental health needs of perinatal women can be met in primary or perinatal care services; however, women with mental health issues should be offered psychiatric consultations and psychological support, and sometimes urgent psychiatric hospitalization is necessary. Healthcare professionals should provide information addressing uncertainty about COVID-19, organization of midwifery and medical care as well as mental health problems and how to get help. Mental health interventions in pregnant women may involve planning physical activity and encouraging to engage in online social activities.

COVID-19 Pandemic and Maternal Psychological Wellbeing During the Malaysian Movement Control Order: A Cross-Sectional Study

“…Various studies on maternal mental health during the global pandemic showed an uptrend in the symptoms of psychological distress. A recent systematic review by Suwalska et al found that the prevalence of depression and anxiety among perinatal women were as high as 56.3 and 77%, respectively ( 14 , 34 , 35 ). Current evidence also showed that the rate of psychological distress was positively correlated to the reported number of positive COVID-19 cases and related deaths ( 15 , 36 ).…”

“…Risk of COVID-19 transmission to self and fetus alongside uncertainties about deliveries, loss of household income, and domestic conflict was among the stressors which contributed toward pregnancy-related anxiety (12). Studies conducted during the first wave of the pandemic showed an increase in the prevalence of depression and anxiety among pregnant women (13)(14)(15). Wu et al found that the depressive rates were positively associated with the number of newly-confirmed COVID-19 cases and fatalities (15).…”

“…Wu et al found that the depressive rates were positively associated with the number of newly-confirmed COVID-19 cases and fatalities ( 15 ). Primiparity, younger age, lack of social support, and previous psychiatric diagnosis were among the risk factors for maternal depression and anxiety ( 14 ).…”

Women’s Healthcare Services since the COVID-19 Pandemic Outbreak in Poland

“…Pregnant women struggling with fears and deprived of the supportive care provided by their partners during childbirth are in the high risk group of developing postpartum depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder [ 25 ]. The pandemic outbreak strongly contributed to an additional source of fear—a novel SARS-CoV-2 virus with an unknown impact on maternal and neonatal health outcomes, especially among women living in areas strongly affected by COVID-19 [ 26 , 27 ]. Means of preparation for childbirth were modified—online meetings replaced the traditional antenatal classes, which were a great opportunity for face-to-face meetings with specialists and other parents [ 27 ].…”

Impact psychologique des femmes enceintes atteintes du COVID-19: à propos de 2 cas cliniques

“…Ces constatations ont été confirmées par les résultats d´une revue de la littérature faite par Julia et al . qui indiquent une prévalence significative de la dépression (56,3%) et les symptômes d'anxiété (77%) chez les femmes enceintes pendant la pandémie de COVID-19 [ 5 ].…”