Investigating the Impact of Coronavirus Disease 2019 on Women's Inclination or Disinclination Toward Childbearing

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Background: Childbearing constitutes a critical demographic determinant, exerting substantial influence on both the quantitative and qualitative evolution of a nation's population. Furthermore, it holds significant relevance within the domain of socio-cultural dynamics. Objectives: This research endeavor sought to evaluate the impact of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic on women's inclination or disinclination toward childbearing, within healthcare centers affiliated to Abadan University of Medical Sciences. Methods: A comparative cross-sectional survey design was employed in this research. The study population comprised 245 female participants, aged 18 to 45 years, who were recruited from healthcare centers affiliated to Abadan University of Medical Sciences. Participants were selected via cluster sampling method from 2023 to 2024, and inclusion criteria mandated the absence of medical contraindications to pregnancy. Data collection was facilitated by a tripartite questionnaire, encompassing demographic characteristics, inclination toward childbearing, and disinclination toward childbearing. The analysis of the data was conducted utilizing SPSS version 26 statistical software, employing both descriptive and inferential statistical methods, which included the Pearson’s correlation coefficient and logistic regression analysis. Results: The primary motivations for a pro-natalist stance, as reported by the majority of participants, were the inherent desire for parenthood (56.7%) and a pronounced interest in raising offspring (45.7%). Conversely, the principal deterrents to pregnancy were identified as inadequate residential accommodations (42.9%) and apprehensions regarding the child's future financial security (34.3%). The current study demonstrated a significant correlation between age and the inclination toward childbearing, with younger women exhibiting a heightened inclination. Several critical determinants were identified as influential factors in shaping maternal reproductive desires during the COVID-19 pandemic. These determinants encompass the existing number of offspring, prior COVID-19 infection, education level, income status, environmental health conditions, and a history of high-risk pregnancies. Conclusions: This research investigates the etiology of procreative intentions, specifically examining the determinants of inclination or disinclination toward childbearing during the COVID-19 period. Findings revealed that women expressing a desire for pregnancy were primarily motivated by the pursuit of expanded familial structures and enhanced intrafamilial cohesion. Conversely, economic limitations and apprehensions regarding child-rearing costs were identified as salient deterrents to childbirth. Demographic and socioeconomic variables, including maternal age, parity, educational attainment, and income level, significantly modulated maternal fertility preferences. Notably, a prior history of COVID-19 infection did not exert a statistically significant influence on these preferences. However, pre-existing health conditions and a history of high-risk pregnancies were associated with a diminished inclination toward pregnancy. The outcomes of this study offer pertinent data for the formulation of public policy and the provision of healthcare services.