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Experiences of Discrimination and Depression Trajectories over Pregnancy. Womens Health Issues 2022; 32:147-155. [PMID: 34774402 PMCID: PMC9701536 DOI: 10.1016/j.whi.2021.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2020] [Revised: 09/27/2021] [Accepted: 10/08/2021] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Research on risk factors for prenatal depression is critical to improve the understanding, prevention, and treatment of women's psychopathology. The current study examines the relation between experiences of racial discrimination and trajectories of depression symptoms over the course of pregnancy. METHOD Participants completed standardized measures regarding symptoms of depression at four timepoints during pregnancy and reported on experiences of racial discrimination at one timepoint. Latent growth curve modeling was used to examine the relation between discrimination and initial levels (intercept) and trajectories (slope) of depression symptoms over pregnancy. RESULTS Participants were 129 pregnant individuals recruited from obstetric clinics and oversampled for elevated depression symptoms. Thirty-six percent of the participants were living at or below 200% of the federal poverty line. Fifty-four percent of the sample identified as non-Latinx White, 26% as Latinx, and 13% as non-Latinx Black. An unconditional latent growth curve modeling revealed a negative quadratic trajectory of depression symptoms during pregnancy. When women's report of discrimination was added as a predictor of depression trajectories, discrimination predicted the initial value (intercept) of depression symptoms, but not change over the course of pregnancy (slope). Specifically, higher levels of experiences of discrimination were associated with higher levels of depression symptoms. When sociodemographic and contextual covariates were included in the model, a low family income-to-needs ratio was also related to higher levels of depression symptoms. CONCLUSIONS These findings provide evidence that women's experiences of racial discrimination and family financial strain are risk factors for prenatal depression, with implications for screening, treatment, and policy.
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Orsolini L, Pompili S, Mauro A, Salvi V, Volpe U. Fear and anxiety related to COVID-19 pandemic may predispose to perinatal depression in Italy. Front Psychiatry 2022; 13:977681. [PMID: 35990081 PMCID: PMC9382111 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.977681] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2022] [Accepted: 07/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic situation significantly affected the mental health of the general and clinical population. However, few studies investigated which COVID-19-related psychopathological determinants may predispose to perinatal depression. We evaluated the impact of COVID-19 related anxiety and fear on perinatal depression in Italy. We retrospectively screened 184 perinatal outpatients afferent to Perinatal Mental Health outpatient service, during March 2020-March 2021, by administering the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS), the Fear of COVID-19 (FCV-19-S) and the Coronavirus Anxiety Scale (CAS). Among these, 85 patients agreed to be recruited in the present study. The mean EPDS score was 9.0, experiencing a clinically relevant perinatal depression in 45.7% of the sample. The mean FCV-19-S score was 15.0 and CAS was 1.7. Linear regression analyses demonstrated that FCV-19-S and CAS scores statistically significantly predicted EPDS total scores. A positive significant correlation was reported between FCV-19-S and EPDS and between CAS and EPDS. During the COVID-19 pandemic, women in their perinatal period, independently of previous psychiatric history, experienced increased levels of anxiety, fear and psychological distress, due to subsequent isolation, quarantine, lockdown and deprivation of their normal social support. Further preventive and screening strategies should be implemented in order to early identify at-risk pregnant and puerperal women during the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Orsolini
- Unit of Clinical Psychiatry, Department of Neurosciences/DIMSC, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Simone Pompili
- Unit of Clinical Psychiatry, Department of Neurosciences/DIMSC, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Antonella Mauro
- Unit of Clinical Psychiatry, Department of Neurosciences/DIMSC, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Virginio Salvi
- Unit of Clinical Psychiatry, Department of Neurosciences/DIMSC, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Umberto Volpe
- Unit of Clinical Psychiatry, Department of Neurosciences/DIMSC, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
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Ross AM, Ramlawi S, Fakhraei R, Murphy MSQ, Ducharme R, Dingwall-Harvey ALJ, White RR, Ritchie K, Muldoon K, El-Chaâr D. The psychological impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and a SARS-CoV-2 testing programme on obstetric patients and healthcare workers. WOMEN'S HEALTH 2022; 18:17455057221103101. [PMID: 35686846 PMCID: PMC9189525 DOI: 10.1177/17455057221103101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Objectives: The aim of this study was to describe the psychological impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and the specific impact of a universal SARS-CoV-2 testing programme on obstetric patients and healthcare workers at The Ottawa Hospital. Methods: This was a follow-up survey study of obstetric healthcare workers and then-pregnant patients who participated in a SARS-CoV-2 testing programme conducted in The Ottawa Hospital obstetrical triage units from 19 October to 17 November 2020. Surveys explored the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic and the testing programme on participants’ psychological well-being. Responses were collected from April to September 2021. Descriptive summary statistics were calculated for both groups. Results: During hospitalization for delivery, obstetric patients (n = 143) worried about giving COVID-19 to their new baby (88.11%), catching COVID-19 (83.22%), and giving COVID-19 to their partner (76.22%). Patients felt relief at being tested for COVID-19 during the universal testing programme (24.65%) and at getting their results (28.87%). Patients also believed that universal SARS-CoV-2 testing was a good way to slow COVID-19 spread (79.72%), reduce anxiety (75.52%), and increase relief (76.22%). In addition, patients felt good about participating in research that could help others (91.61%). Among obstetric healthcare workers (n = 94), job satisfaction decreased and job stress increased during the COVID-19 pandemic. The universal testing programme led to minor increases in healthcare worker job stress and burden, particularly among nurses, but the majority (85.23%) believed it was a valuable research initiative. Conclusion: The COVID-19 pandemic has had a negative psychological impact on obstetric patients and healthcare workers. Universal SARS-CoV-2 testing was generally viewed favourably and may serve as an effective strategy for estimating COVID-19 prevalence without adding undue stress onto patients and healthcare workers during the pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abigail M Ross
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Serine Ramlawi
- Clinical Epidemiology Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Romina Fakhraei
- Clinical Epidemiology Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Malia SQ Murphy
- Clinical Epidemiology Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Robin Ducharme
- Clinical Epidemiology Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | | | - Ruth Rennicks White
- Clinical Epidemiology Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Newborn Care, The Ottawa Hospital, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Kerri Ritchie
- Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Psychiatry, The Ottawa Hospital, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- School of Psychology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Katherine Muldoon
- Clinical Epidemiology Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Darine El-Chaâr
- Clinical Epidemiology Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Newborn Care, The Ottawa Hospital, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Darine El-Chaâr, Department of Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Newborn care, The Ottawa Hospital, General Campus, CPCR, Box 241, 501 Smyth Road, Ottawa, ON K1H 8L6, Canada.
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Sirikul W, Ongprasert K, Piankusol C, Siviroj P. Maternal Mental Health under COVID-19 Pandemic in Thailand. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 19:347. [PMID: 35010607 PMCID: PMC8744545 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19010347] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2021] [Revised: 12/27/2021] [Accepted: 12/28/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Numerous nations have implemented lockdown measures in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. As a consequence of the lockdown on daily living, social participation, and health service accessibility, vulnerable people, for example, new mothers, may experience an increase in mental health problems. This cross-sectional survey was conducted to investigate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown on Thai new mothers and the variables affecting their mental health. The survey data were collected from 903 Thai mothers with infants aged 0-12 months using an online platform and a face-to-face interview questionnaire survey between 17 July and 17 October 2020, during the first nationwide COVID-19 lockdown period. For the final analysis, there were 862 participants who completed all of the questions. The full exploratory analysis was performed by multivariable linear regression to identify the variables influencing maternal mental health. Our study demonstrated that new mothers reported feeling a high extent to some extent of worry (44.9%), increased appetite (40.4%), becoming easily annoyed or irritable (39.1%), and feeling down (33.5%), whereas 82.7% felt able to cope with the first lockdown situation. Practiced relaxation techniques were associated with positive maternal mental health (adjusted β = 1.05, 95% CI 0.57 to 1.52, p < 0.001). The perceived impact of the COVID-19 lockdown was on the household's ability to pay for rent, to make mortgage payments (adjusted β = -1.59, 95% CI -2.87 to -0.36, p = 0.011), the household's ability to pay for other essentials, such as utilities and medication (adjusted β = -1.99, 95% CI -3.16 to -0.81, p = 0.001), household crowding after lockdown (adjusted β = -3.46, 95% CI -4.86 to -2.06, p < 0.001), and not going outside or doing outdoor activities (adjusted β = -2.22, 95% CI -3.35 to -1.08, p < 0.001). These impacts were significantly associated with negative mental health. In conclusion, our results emphasize the critical need for continuous monitoring of maternal mental health and developing an effective response strategy and activity for promoting maternal mental health under the stress of repetitive lockdowns and increased economic pressures.
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Paul JJ, Dardar S, River LM, St John-Larkin C. Telehealth adaptation of perinatal mental health mother-infant group programming for the COVID-19 pandemic. Infant Ment Health J 2021; 43:85-99. [PMID: 34953077 PMCID: PMC9015219 DOI: 10.1002/imhj.21960] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2021] [Accepted: 11/03/2021] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
The COVID‐19 pandemic and ensuing isolation stressed pregnant and postpartum women and their families pervasively. This necessitated addressing young families’ mental health needs while protecting both patients and providers from COVID‐19 exposure. Our experience of rapidly adapting Pregnancy, Maternal Postpartum Peer Support, and Mother–Infant Postpartum Group interventions to high‐quality telehealth modalities elucidates benefits and challenges of mother–infant dyadic treatment amidst the pandemic. This study compares 2019 in‐person and 2020 telehealth services during the period from mid‐March through mid‐December in each year. Initial program Warmline contacts were similar across years despite pandemic‐related restrictions, with 2020 program contacts surpassing the 147 unique patient outreaches during the commensurate 2019 period. Pregnancy Group enrollment remained consistent. Maternal Postpartum Peer Support Group participation increased with transition to telehealth with 27 individuals with over 100 group‐based visits in 2020. Twenty‐five mother–infant Postpartum pairs initially enrolled in the 12‐week multicomponent Mother–Infant Therapy Group (M‐ITG) during 2019 in‐person services, and 16 completed the program (36% non‐completion rate). During 2020 telehealth, 15 of 18 mother–infant pairs completed the program (17% non‐completion rate); a greater than 50% reduction in non‐completion. We further compare pre‐/post‐pandemic onset M‐ITG participant demographics, enrollment, and Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) scores.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer J Paul
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Shaleah Dardar
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Laura M River
- Department of Psychology, University of Denver, Denver, Colorado, USA
| | - Celeste St John-Larkin
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, USA
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Zöllkau J, Hagenbeck C, Hecher K, Pecks U, Schlembach D, Simon A, Schlösser R, Schleußner E. [Recommendations for SARS-CoV-2/COVID-19 during Pregnancy, Birth and Childbed - Update November 2021 (Long Version)]. Z Geburtshilfe Neonatol 2021; 226:e1-e35. [PMID: 34918334 DOI: 10.1055/a-1688-9398] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Since the onset of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, the German Society of Gynecology and Obstetrics and the Society for Peri-/Neonatal Medicine have published and repeatedly updated recommendations for the management of SARS-CoV-2 positive pregnancies and neonates. As a continuation of existing recommendations, the current update addresses key issues related to the prenatal, perinatal, and postnatal care of pregnant women, women who have given birth, women who have recently given birth, women who are breastfeeding with SARS-CoV-2 and COVID-19, and their unborn or newborn infants, based on publications through September 2021. Recommendations and opinions were carefully derived from currently available scientific data and subsequently adopted by expert consensus. This guideline - here available in the long version - is intended to be an aid to clinical decision making. Interpretation and therapeutic responsibility remain with the supervising local medical team, whose decisions should be supported by these recommendations. Adjustments may be necessary due to the rapid dynamics of new evidence. The recommendations are supported by the endorsement of the professional societies: German Society for Perinatal Medicine (DGPM), German Society of Gynecology and Obstetrics (DGGG), German Society for Prenatal and Obstetric Medicine (DGPGM), German Society for Pediatric Infectiology (DGPI), Society for Neonatology and Pediatric Intensive Care Medicine (GNPI).
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Affiliation(s)
- Janine Zöllkau
- Klinik für Geburtsmedizin, Universitätsklinikum Jena, Deutschland
| | - Carsten Hagenbeck
- Klinik für Frauenheilkunde und Geburtshilfe, Universität Düsseldorf, Deutschland
| | - Kurt Hecher
- Klinik für Geburtshilfe und Pränatalmedizin, Universitätsklinikum Hamburg-Eppendorf, Deutschland
| | - Ulrich Pecks
- Klinik für Gynäkologie und Geburtshilfe, Campus Kiel, Universitätsklinikum Schleswig-Holstein, Deutschland
| | - Dietmar Schlembach
- Klinik für Geburtsmedizin, Vivantes Klinikum Neukölln, Berlin, Deutschland
| | - Arne Simon
- Klinik für Pädiatrische Onkologie und Hämatologie, Universitätsklinikum des Saarlandes, Homburg/Saar, Deutschland
| | - Rolf Schlösser
- Schwerpunkt Neonatologie, Klinik für Kinder- und Jugendmedizin, Universitätsklinikum Frankfurt, Deutschland
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Usmani S, Greca E, Javed S, Sharath M, Sarfraz Z, Sarfraz A, Salari SW, Hussaini SS, Mohammadi A, Chellapuram N, Cabrera E, Ferrer G. Risk Factors for Postpartum Depression During COVID-19 Pandemic: A Systematic Literature Review. J Prim Care Community Health 2021; 12:21501327211059348. [PMID: 34894838 PMCID: PMC8671662 DOI: 10.1177/21501327211059348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The COVID-19 pandemic has had a devastating worldwide effect on mental health. Recent studies correlate the spreading of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) with symptoms of depression, most prominent in postpartum women. Our systematic literature review scope is to identify the risk factors and predictors for postpartum depression (PPD) and describe the steps that should be taken to help postpartum women. This study will help clinicians, researchers, and policymakers to elucidate the predictors of PPD during this pandemic and prevent these adverse outcomes in future crises. METHODS We conducted a systematic search by employing databases PubMed, Google Scholar, Scopus, and Embase to identify articles published before March 2021. About 463 publications were generated during our search process and from those, 36 were reviewed, summarized, and synthesized. Studies qualified the criteria if they (1) utilized qualitative or quantitative design, (2) explored the risk factors for PPD, and (3) were written in English. Quality evaluation of each study was achieved by using criteria set by Lincoln and Guba. RESULTS Prevalence of depression symptoms ranged from 7% to 80.8% in postpartum women during the SARS-COV 2 pandemic. The risk factors for PPD were classified into 6 major categories: socio-demographic, psychological, pre-existing pathology, metabolic factors, previous events of miscarriage, and media misinformation. CONCLUSION It is extremely vital to care for women's mental health during pregnancy and after childbirth during these unprecedented times. This review urges the need to design adequate interventions for this vulnerable population to prevent negative consequences of PPD.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Elona Greca
- Larkin Community Hospital, South Miami, FL, USA
| | - Sana Javed
- Larkin Community Hospital, South Miami, FL, USA
| | | | - Zouina Sarfraz
- Larkin Community Hospital, South Miami, FL, USA
- Zouina Sarfraz, Division of Clinical and Translational Research, Larkin Community Hospital, 7031 SW 62nd Avenue, South Miami, FL 33143, USA.
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Mappa I, Distefano FA, Rizzo G. Effects of COVID-19 on maternal anxiety and depressive disease: a literature review. SECHENOV MEDICAL JOURNAL 2021. [DOI: 10.47093/2218-7332.2021.12.2.35-43] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
The coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) infection is a public health emergency of international concern. Pandemics pose a challenge to psychological resilience and can have an adverse impact on mental health. The impact of the ensuing social isolation and loneliness imposed by quarantine along with the worries about the risks of the infection and its economic fallout would appear likely to affect the mental health of the population. It has been reported that women are more likely to experience anxiety and depression symptoms during COVID-19 than men. COVID-19 pandemic had a profound impact on the level of anxiety and depression of pregnant women according to their basal level and pregnancy characteristics. Antenatal mental disorders may be a risk factor for maternal mental health problems such as an increased likelihood of postnatal depression and adverse obstetric and developmental outcomes. Effective coping strategies are associated with better psychological wellbeing during the COVID-19 pandemic, including reduced anxiety and depression. The increased risk of mental disorders due to COVID-19 requires policies to be developed to address prenatal and postpartum care to promote maternal-child wellbeing outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- I. Mappa
- University of Rome Tor Vergata, Fondazione Policlinico Tor Vergata, Division of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Ospedale Cristo Re
| | - F. A. Distefano
- University of Rome Tor Vergata, Fondazione Policlinico Tor Vergata, Division of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Ospedale Cristo Re
| | - G. Rizzo
- University of Rome Tor Vergata, Fondazione Policlinico Tor Vergata, Division of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Ospedale Cristo Re
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Ilska M, Kołodziej-Zaleska A, Brandt-Salmeri A, Preis H, Lobel M. Pandemic Stress and Its Correlates among Pregnant Women during the Second Wave of COVID-19 in Poland. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:11140. [PMID: 34769659 PMCID: PMC8582876 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph182111140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2021] [Revised: 10/18/2021] [Accepted: 10/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Background: The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has created numerous stressful conditions, especially for vulnerable populations such as pregnant women. Pandemic-related pregnancy stress consists of two dimensions: stress associated with feeling unprepared for birth due to the pandemic (Preparedness Stress), and stress related to fears of perinatal COVID-19 infection (Perinatal Infection Stress). The purpose of our study was to elucidate the association between various factors-sociodemographic, obstetric, pandemic-related, and situational-and pandemic stress in its two dimensions during the second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic in Polish pregnant women. Methods: A cross-sectional study with a total of 1119 pregnant women recruited during the second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic in Poland (between November 2020 and January 2021). Participants were recruited via social media to complete an online study questionnaire that included sociodemographic, obstetric, situational, and COVID-19 pandemic factors, as well as the Pandemic-Related Pregnancy Stress Scale (PREPS). Results: Nearly 38.5% of participants reported high Preparedness Stress; 26% reported high Perinatal Infection Stress. Multivariate analyses indicated that lack of COVID-19 diagnosis, higher compliance with safety rules and restrictions, and limited access to outdoor space were independently associated with moderate to severe levels of Infection Stress. Current emotional or psychiatric problems, nulliparity, limited access to outdoor space, and alterations to obstetric visits were independently associated with moderate to severe Preparedness Stress. Conclusion: Study findings suggest that particular attention should be focused on the groups of pregnant women who are most vulnerable to pandemic-related stress and therefore may be more prone to adverse outcomes associated with prenatal stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michalina Ilska
- Institute of Psychology, University of Silesia in Katowice, Grażyńskiego Street 53, 40-126 Katowice, Poland; (A.K.-Z.); (A.B.-S.)
| | - Anna Kołodziej-Zaleska
- Institute of Psychology, University of Silesia in Katowice, Grażyńskiego Street 53, 40-126 Katowice, Poland; (A.K.-Z.); (A.B.-S.)
| | - Anna Brandt-Salmeri
- Institute of Psychology, University of Silesia in Katowice, Grażyńskiego Street 53, 40-126 Katowice, Poland; (A.K.-Z.); (A.B.-S.)
| | - Heidi Preis
- Department of Psychology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY 11794, USA; (H.P.); (M.L.)
| | - Marci Lobel
- Department of Psychology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY 11794, USA; (H.P.); (M.L.)
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Kornfield SL, White LK, Waller R, Njoroge W, Barzilay R, Chaiyachati BH, Himes MM, Rodriguez Y, Riis V, Simonette K, Elovitz MA, Gur RE. Risk And Resilience Factors Influencing Postpartum Depression And Mother-Infant Bonding During COVID-19. Health Aff (Millwood) 2021; 40:1566-1574. [PMID: 34606353 DOI: 10.1377/hlthaff.2021.00803] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Acute stress during pregnancy can have adverse effects on maternal health and increase the risk for postpartum depression and impaired mother-infant bonding. The COVID-19 pandemic represents an acute environmental stressor during which it is possible to explore risk and resilience factors that contribute to postpartum outcomes. To investigate prenatal risk and resilience factors as predictors of postpartum depression and impaired mother-infant bonding, this study recruited a diverse cohort of 833 pregnant women from an urban medical center in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and assessed them once during pregnancy in the early phase of the COVID-19 pandemic (April-July 2020) and again at approximately twelve weeks postpartum. Adverse childhood experiences, prenatal depression and anxiety, and COVID-19-related distress predicted a greater likelihood of postpartum depression. Prenatal depression was the only unique predictor of impaired maternal-infant bonding after postpartum depression was controlled for. Women reporting greater emotion regulation, self-reliance, and nonhostile relationships had healthier postpartum outcomes. Policies to increase the number of nonspecialty providers providing perinatal mental health services as well as reimbursement for integrated care and access to mental health screening and care are needed to improve lifelong outcomes for women and their children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara L Kornfield
- Sara L. Kornfield is an assistant professor in the Penn Center for Women's Behavioral Wellness, Department of Psychiatry, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Kornfield and Lauren K. White are co-first authors
| | - Lauren K White
- Lauren K. White is a research scientist in the Lifespan Brain Institute, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia and Department of Psychiatry, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania. White and Sara L. Kornfield are co-first authors
| | - Rebecca Waller
- Rebecca Waller is an assistant professor in the Department of Psychology, University of Pennsylvania
| | - Wanjiku Njoroge
- Wanjiku Njoroge is an assistant professor in the Department of Psychiatry, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania
| | - Ran Barzilay
- Ran Barzilay is an assistant professor in the Lifespan Brain Institute, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia and Department of Psychiatry, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania
| | - Barbara H Chaiyachati
- Barbara H. Chaiyachati is an associate fellow in the Lifespan Brain Institute, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia and Department of Psychiatry, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania
| | - Megan M Himes
- Megan M. Himes is a research assistant in the Lifespan Brain Institute, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia and Department of Psychiatry, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania
| | - Yuheiry Rodriguez
- Yuheiry Rodriguez is a study coordinator in the Department of Psychology, University of Pennsylvania
| | - Valerie Riis
- Valerie Riis is the director of operations, Maternal and Child Health Research Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania
| | - Keri Simonette
- Keri Simonette is a clinical research coordinator at Jefferson Health, in Philadelphia, Pennsylania. She was a project manager with the Maternal Child Health Research Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, when this work was performed
| | - Michal A Elovitz
- Michal A. Elovitz is a professor in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania
| | - Raquel E Gur
- Raquel E. Gur is a professor in the Lifespan Brain Institute, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia and Department of Psychiatry, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania
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Papadopoulos A, Nichols ES, Mohsenzadeh Y, Giroux I, Mottola MF, Van Lieshout RJ, Duerden EG. Depression in pregnant women with and without COVID-19. BJPsych Open 2021; 7:e173. [PMID: 34635872 PMCID: PMC8485035 DOI: 10.1192/bjo.2021.1010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2021] [Revised: 08/24/2021] [Accepted: 08/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Evidence suggests that pregnant women who test positive for COVID-19 may develop more severe illness than non-pregnant women and may be at greater risk for psychological distress. The relationship between COVID-19 status (positive, negative, never tested) and symptoms of depression was examined in a survey study (May to September 2020) of pregnant women (n = 869). Pregnant women who reported testing positive for COVID-19 were significantly more likely to report depressive symptoms compared with women who tested negative (P = 0.027) and women who were never tested (P = 0.005). Findings indicate that pregnant women who test positive for COVID-19 should be screened and monitored for depressive symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alissa Papadopoulos
- Applied Psychology, Faculty of Education, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Emily S. Nichols
- Applied Psychology, Faculty of Education, and The Brain and Mind Institute, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Yalda Mohsenzadeh
- The Brain and Mind Institute and Department of Computer Science, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Isabelle Giroux
- School of Nutrition Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Ottawa, and Insititut du Savoir Monfort, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Michelle F. Mottola
- R. Samuel McLaughlin Foundation – Exercise and Pregnancy Laboratory, School of Kinesiology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Children's Health Research Institute, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Ryan J. Van Lieshout
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Neurosciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Emma G. Duerden
- Applied Psychology, Faculty of Education, The Brain and Mind Institute, and Psychiatry, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
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Baggett KM, Davis B, Mosley EA, Miller K, Leve C, Feil EG. Depressed and Socioeconomically Disadvantaged Mothers' Progression Into a Randomized Controlled Mobile Mental Health and Parenting Intervention: A Descriptive Examination Prior to and During COVID-19. Front Psychol 2021; 12:719149. [PMID: 34456828 PMCID: PMC8397379 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2021.719149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2021] [Accepted: 07/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Infants of low-income and depressed mothers are at high risk for poor developmental outcomes. Early parenting mediates infant experiences from birth, and early intervention can support sensitive and responsive parent practices that optimize infant outcomes via promoting developmental competencies. However, low-income and depressed mothers experience substantial challenges to participating in early intervention. They also have extremely limited access to interventions targeting depression. Interventions targeting maternal depression and parent practices can improve maternal and infant outcomes. Mobile internet-based interventions overcome numerous barriers that low-resource mothers face in accessing home-based interventions. Pandemic-related stressors likely reduce family resources and exacerbate distress of already heavily-burdened mother-infant dyads. During crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic, evidence-based remote coaching interventions are paramount. This article reports on a mobile intervention for improving maternal mood and increasing parent practices that promote infant development. An ongoing randomized controlled trial study provided a unique opportunity to monitor progression from referral to intervention initiation between two groups of depressed mothers: those prior to the pandemic and during the pandemic. The study also examines mother and infant characteristics at baseline. The sample consisted primarily of Black mothers experiencing extreme poverty who self-referred to the study in a large southern city, which is one of the most income disparate in the United States. Prior to the pandemic, 97% of study participants successfully progressed from consent to intervention, as compared to significantly fewer–86%–during the pandemic. Mother-infant dyads during COVID-19, as compared to those prior to COVID-19, displayed similar pre-intervention demographic characteristics and intrapersonal characteristics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathleen M Baggett
- Mark Chaffin Center for Healthy Development, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Betsy Davis
- Oregon Research Institute, Eugene, OR, United States
| | - Elizabeth A Mosley
- Mark Chaffin Center for Healthy Development, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Katy Miller
- Mark Chaffin Center for Healthy Development, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Craig Leve
- Oregon Research Institute, Eugene, OR, United States
| | - Edward G Feil
- Oregon Research Institute, Eugene, OR, United States
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63
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Esteban-Gonzalo S, Caballero-Galilea M, González-Pascual JL, Álvaro-Navidad M, Esteban-Gonzalo L. Anxiety and Worries among Pregnant Women during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Multilevel Analysis. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:6875. [PMID: 34206849 PMCID: PMC8297358 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18136875] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2021] [Revised: 06/22/2021] [Accepted: 06/24/2021] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Background. Several studies have identified pregnant women as a vulnerable group during the COVID-19 pandemic. The perinatal period has been identified as a stage of great risk for the mental health of pregnant women, due to a large increase in mental pathologies during this period. In this context, the objective of the present study was to assess the associations between socioeconomic and demographic factors, health concerns and health information management, and anxiety level during the COVID-19 pandemic in pregnant Spanish women. Method. The sample of this cross-sectional study was comprised of 353 pregnant women, aged 18 or older and residing in Spain. Data collection was carried out from 1 June to 30 September 2020. Participants were recruited from Quirónsalud University Hospital of Madrid. Multilevel regression models were built to value the associations between demographic factors, health concerns and health information management, and anxiety level during the COVID-19 pandemic among pregnant women. Results. Reduced working hours and income due to the COVID-19 pandemic were related to increased anxiety levels, as was the level of concern about COVID-19 symptoms, potential complications, contagion and consequences for the baby. Worries caused by restrictive measures adopted against COVID-19 and resulting isolation, delivery, postpartum and breastfeeding were also associated with increased anxiety levels. Being a separated or divorced woman and being informed to a greater extent by a midwife were related to lower anxiety levels. An increase in the degree of information obtained about COVID-19 symptoms, complications, contagion and consequences for the baby, restrictive measures and isolation adopted against COVID-19, delivery, postpartum and breastfeeding, were also related to decreased anxiety levels. Conclusions. The most vulnerable future mothers in terms of anxiety levels are those with reduced working hours and income due to the COVID-19 pandemic, those with a higher level of concern and who had access to a lesser degree of information about COVID-19 (symptoms and complications, contagion and consequences on the baby, restrictive measures and isolation, delivery, postpartum and breastfeeding), as well as pregnant women who have obtained information about COVID-19 during pregnancy from TV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Esteban-Gonzalo
- Psychology Department, Faculty of Biomedicine, Universidad Europea de Madrid, 28670 Madrid, Spain
| | - María Caballero-Galilea
- Nursing Department, Faculty of Biomedicine, Universidad Europea de Madrid, 28670 Madrid, Spain; (M.C.-G.); (J.L.G.-P.); (L.E.-G.)
| | - Juan Luis González-Pascual
- Nursing Department, Faculty of Biomedicine, Universidad Europea de Madrid, 28670 Madrid, Spain; (M.C.-G.); (J.L.G.-P.); (L.E.-G.)
| | - Miguel Álvaro-Navidad
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, 28049 Madrid, Spain;
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hospital Universitario Fundación Jiménez Díaz, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Laura Esteban-Gonzalo
- Nursing Department, Faculty of Biomedicine, Universidad Europea de Madrid, 28670 Madrid, Spain; (M.C.-G.); (J.L.G.-P.); (L.E.-G.)
- Nursing Department, Faculty of Nursing, Physiotherapy and Podiatry, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain
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64
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Yirmiya K, Yakirevich-Amir N, Preis H, Lotan A, Atzil S, Reuveni I. Women's Depressive Symptoms during the COVID-19 Pandemic: The Role of Pregnancy. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:4298. [PMID: 33919564 PMCID: PMC8072624 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18084298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2021] [Revised: 04/12/2021] [Accepted: 04/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
The Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has multiple ramifications for pregnant women. Untreated depression during pregnancy may have long-term effects on the mother and offspring. Therefore, delineating the effects of pregnancy on the mental health of reproductive-age women is crucial. This study aims to determine the risk for depressive symptoms in pregnant and non-pregnant women during COVID-19, and to identify its bio-psycho-social contributors. A total of 1114 pregnant and 256 non-pregnant women were recruited via social media in May 2020 to complete an online survey that included depression and anxiety questionnaires, as well as demographic, obstetric and COVID-19-related questionnaires. Pregnant women also completed the Pandemic-Related Pregnancy Stress Scale (PREPS). Pregnant women reported fewer depressive symptoms and were less concerned that they had COVID-19 than non-pregnant women. Among pregnant women, risk factors for depression included lower income, fewer children, unemployment, thinking that one has COVID-19, high-risk pregnancy, earlier gestational age, and increased pregnancy-related stress. Protective factors included increased partner support, healthy behaviors, and positive appraisal of the pregnancy. Thus, being pregnant is associated with reduced risk for depressive symptoms during the pandemic. Increased social support, engaging in health behaviors and positive appraisal may enhance resilience. Future studies of pregnant versus non-pregnant women could clarify the role of pregnancy during stressful events, and clarify aspects of susceptibility and resilience during pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karen Yirmiya
- Department of Psychology, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan 5290002, Israel;
- Interdisciplinary Center, Baruch Ivcher School of Psychology, Herzlia 4610101, Israel
| | - Noa Yakirevich-Amir
- Department of Psychiatry, Hadassah Medical Center, Jerusalem 9103401, Israel; (N.Y.-A.); (A.L.)
| | - Heidi Preis
- Department of Psychology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY 11794, USA;
| | - Amit Lotan
- Department of Psychiatry, Hadassah Medical Center, Jerusalem 9103401, Israel; (N.Y.-A.); (A.L.)
- Faculty of Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 9112102, Israel
| | - Shir Atzil
- Department of Psychology, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 9190401, Israel;
| | - Inbal Reuveni
- Department of Psychiatry, Hadassah Medical Center, Jerusalem 9103401, Israel; (N.Y.-A.); (A.L.)
- Faculty of Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 9112102, Israel
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Cheng B, Meng Y, Zhou Y, Li J, Zeng J, Tan X, Zhang K, Luo Y, Zhang Y. Cerebral Regional Homogeneity Alternation of Pregnant Women With Antenatal Depression During the Pandemic. Front Psychiatry 2021; 12:627871. [PMID: 33959047 PMCID: PMC8093433 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2021.627871] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2020] [Accepted: 03/22/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose: The COVID-19 epidemic has been a threat to the health of people all over the world. Various precautions during COVID-19 in China have kept a large number of people in isolation, and this has inconvenienced and placed enormous stress on pregnant women. Pregnant women are more likely to suffer from antenatal depression (ANDP) with social isolation or low social support. This research aims to investigate the neurobiological mechanisms underlying ANDP, which impedes early detection and intervention in this disorder. Methods: A total of 43 singleton pregnant women who experienced isolation were recruited, including 21 treatment-naïve ANDP patients and 22 healthy pregnant women (HPW). To explore the intrinsic cerebral activity alternations in ANDP using resting-state functional MRI (rsfMRI), we assessed the local regional homogeneity (ReHo) differences in two groups using the voxel-based whole-brain analysis. The correlation between the regional functional abnormalities and clinical variables in ANDP patients was also examined. Results: Compared with HPW, ANDP patients showed decreased ReHo in the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex, right insular and the cluster coving the right ventral temporal cortex (VTC), amygdala (AMG), and hippocampus (HIP). The Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) scores of ANDP patients negatively correlated with the ReHo in the right VTC, AMG, and HIP. Conclusion: Elucidating the neurobiological features of ANDP patients during COVID-19 is crucial for evolving adequate methods for early diagnosis, precaution, and intervention in a future epidemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bochao Cheng
- Department of Radiology, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yajing Meng
- Department of Psychiatry, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yushan Zhou
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Jinrong Li
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Ministry of Education, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Jianguang Zeng
- School of Economics and Business Administration, Chongqing University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xi Tan
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Kaiyou Zhang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, West China Second Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Ya Luo
- Department of Psychiatry, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yan Zhang
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Wuxi Maternal and Child Health Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Wuxi, China
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Penengo C, Colli C, Cesco M, Croccia V, Degano M, Ferreghini A, Garzitto M, Lobel M, Preis H, Sala A, Driul L, Balestrieri M. Stress, Coping, and Psychiatric Symptoms in Pregnant Women in Outpatient Care During the 2021 Second-Wave COVID-19 Pandemic. Front Psychiatry 2021; 12:775585. [PMID: 35069284 PMCID: PMC8775005 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2021.775585] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2021] [Accepted: 12/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Aims: Women face many sources of stress throughout their lives, and some periods are particularly sensitive; pregnancy is one of them. The COVID-19 pandemic is a likely source of additional stress for pregnant women. Moreover, there is evidence that pregnant women have experienced high levels of anxiety and depression symptoms during the pandemic. Our study aimed to evaluate the association of pregnancy-specific stress, pandemic-related stress, and coping strategies with anxiety, depressive and obsessive-compulsive symptomatology in Italian women during the second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic (December 2020-June 2021). We also investigated whether there were differences in these levels of psychopathology compared to a prior study conducted during the first pandemic wave (April-August 2020) in Italian pregnant women. Methods: We assessed 325 pregnant women receiving outpatient prenatal care, using the Revised Prenatal Distress Questionnaire (NuPDQ), Pandemic-Related Pregnancy Stress Scale (PREPS), the Revised Prenatal Coping Inventory (NuPCI), General Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7), Patient Health Questionnaire-2 (PHQ-2), and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) screening. The main analysis was conducted comparing multiple logistic regression models predicting each psychopathological outcome from specific covariates and NuPDQ, PREPS, and NuPCI scores. Results: 42.8% of the sample reported significant levels of anxiety, while 10.3% was positive on depression screening and 13.1% on OCD screening. No significant difference was found in the prevalence of high anxiety, depression, or OCD screening scores compared with the first pandemic wave. Controlling for covariates, we found that GAD-7 and PHQ-2 scores were predicted by pregnancy-specific stress; positive OCD screening was not. The model of high anxiety was improved by adding pandemic-related stress as a predictor (in particular, feeling unprepared for delivery and postpartum). Finally, coping strategies (avoidance, spiritual coping, and planning-preparation) significantly improved prediction of all three psychopathological outcomes. Conclusions: The present study suggests the importance of pregnancy-related stress, COVID-19 pandemic stress, and of coping strategies in counteracting or contributing to psychiatric symptomatology during the current pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Penengo
- Unit of Psychiatry, Department of Medicine (DAME), University of Udine, Udine, Italy
| | - Chiara Colli
- Unit of Psychiatry, Department of Medicine (DAME), University of Udine, Udine, Italy
| | - Maddalena Cesco
- Unit of Psychiatry, Department of Medicine (DAME), University of Udine, Udine, Italy
| | - Veronica Croccia
- Unit of Psychiatry, Department of Medicine (DAME), University of Udine, Udine, Italy
| | - Matilde Degano
- Obstetric-Gynecologic Clinic, Department of Medicine (DAME), University of Udine, Udine, Italy
| | - Alessandra Ferreghini
- Unit of Psychiatry, Department of Medicine (DAME), University of Udine, Udine, Italy
| | - Marco Garzitto
- Unit of Psychiatry, Department of Medicine (DAME), University of Udine, Udine, Italy
| | - Marci Lobel
- Department of Psychology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, United States
| | - Heidi Preis
- Department of Psychology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, United States
| | - Alessia Sala
- Obstetric-Gynecologic Clinic, Department of Medicine (DAME), University of Udine, Udine, Italy
| | - Lorenza Driul
- Obstetric-Gynecologic Clinic, Department of Medicine (DAME), University of Udine, Udine, Italy
| | - Matteo Balestrieri
- Unit of Psychiatry, Department of Medicine (DAME), University of Udine, Udine, Italy
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Longitudinal study on prenatal depression and anxiety during the COVID-19 pandemic. Arch Womens Ment Health 2021; 24:1027-1036. [PMID: 34159467 PMCID: PMC8219177 DOI: 10.1007/s00737-021-01152-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2021] [Accepted: 06/02/2021] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Several studies have reported the negative impact of the COVID-19 pandemic context on mental health. Given that pregnant women constitute a vulnerable group, they may be at greater risk for developing psychopathological symptoms due to the confinement. The current study aimed to longitudinally analyze the presence and evolution of indicators of depression and anxiety in pregnant and non-pregnant women, and to identify the differential effects of social isolation or distancing measures on these groups. Participants were 105 pregnant and 105 non-pregnant Argentine adult women. They completed the Beck Depression Inventory-II, the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory, and closed-ended questions on sociodemographic factors, at four different times. Results showed a progressive increase in anxiety and depressive symptoms in the first 50 days of confinement in both groups, and a slight decrease after approximately 150 days. Pregnant women presented a more pronounced initial increase in symptoms, and a weaker decrease at the last wave, compared to the non-pregnant. Results suggest that the pandemic context produces a moderate negative early response and that the initial flexibilizations of sanitary measures (50 days) did not slow down the progression of symptoms (even less in pregnant women). In conclusion, being pregnant could be an extra risk factor for the development of psychopathological symptoms during this pandemic. The particular vulnerability of pregnant women and the associated potential negative effects both on them and on their offspring underline the importance of perinatal health policies aimed at prevention and treatment of possible future consequences.
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