Prenatal care disruptions and associations with maternal mental health during the COVID-19 Pandemic

The COVID-19 pandemic has been linked to increased anxiety and depression in pregnant Canadian individuals. This study aimed to identify which pandemic-related disruptions to regular prenatal care were most likely to contribute to these aspects of mental health. Cancellations of prenatal care appointments, changes to childcare plans during birth, and changes to the support person attending birth were associated with greater odds of experiencing depression and/or anxiety. The results of this study highlight the need for reliable and accessible prenatal care during the pandemic, such as mental health screening and coordination of care providers. 

Read the abstract here.