Peripartal COVID-19-Related Restrictions and Psychological Burden - A Quantitative Survey in Austria

Abstract

The period from pregnancy to postpartum is a vulnerable time with an increased risk of mental illness. The COVID-19 pandemic led to restrictions in peripartum care, such as infection control measures, or restrictions regarding accompanying persons. Effects of COVID-19-related restrictions on the psyche and well-being during the peripartum period in Austria were retrospectively assessed using a partially standardized online questionnaire. In addition to closed questions on restrictions and psychological stress, this also contained the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS). Data from 850 women who had given birth during the pandemic were included in the analysis. In 8.5% of cases, appointments were canceled during prenatal care, 10.7% had to wear a face mask during the birth. One in 10 women had to cope with the birth and one in 5 with the puerperium without a companion. Unaccompanied women were significantly less likely to feel well cared for during the birth, more likely to feel alone in the puerperium and, according to the EPDS score, were more likely (39% vs. 20%; p<0.001) to have a high probability of postpartum depression. The pandemic-related restrictions led to anxiety, worry, loneliness and an increased risk of depression during the peripartum period. The balance of mental health was negatively affected by measures and restrictions. Even in times of pandemic, more attention needs to be paid to the vulnerable peripartum period.