Exploring the Impact of COVID-19 on Maternity Care, Pregnancy and Coping

Data: The study assessed the impact of COVID-19 mitigation
efforts on maternity care and antenatal depression.

Sample: 188 participants from a community sample answered an online survey.

Results: Prevalence rates of antenatal depression in
Australia were found to be higher during the pandemic compared to Australian pre
pandemic prevalence rates. Pregnant women were ‘a little to moderately’
concerned both overall and in relation to having their baby. More than half of
the women reported changes to their pregnancy healthcare.

Conclusion: Increased vigilance with screening and
assessment will be required to identify and support this cohort of mothers who
are not coping.