Pyschological traumatic perinatal experiences during the Covid-19 pandemic, epigenetic hypothesis and protective suggestions

Abstract

AbstractWhether Covid-19 will continue with different viral mutations it will last is not yet known. For this reason, correct management of the process becomes important in order to ensure that future generations are least affected by this experience. This literature review aims to discuss hypotheses for the epigenetic effect of perinatal experiences affecting mental health during the Covid-19 pandemic and protective intervention recommendations. A comprehensive understanding of epigenetic mechanisms can allow early risk detection and directed prevention and intervention strategies. There is a need for epigenetic studies that monitor the short- and long-term effects in women/infants going through the perinatal period during the Covid-19 pandemic. Epigenetic studies are costly and take a long time. At this time where the pandemic is still ongoing, it is predicted that the negative effects will be reduced by predicting epigenetic effects and taking protective approaches in line with the results obtained from previous studies. These will be possible with the collective work of multidisciplinary team members. Mental health care professionals should receive training on epigenetics in the perinatal period and should be able to integrate it into counseling processes.