Knowledge and Expectations of Perinatal Care Among Pregnant Women During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Abstract

IntroductionThis study aimed to investigate the knowledge and expectations of pregnant women on perinatal care during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic.MethodsA cross-sectional survey was conducted among pregnant women ≥21 years, without a history of confirmed COVID-19, attending antenatal clinics between August and September 2020 via a secure online platform. The survey consisted of 10 questions which evaluated the knowledge and expectations on perinatal and neonatal care during the current pandemic.ResultsA total of 313 pregnant women completed the survey. The mean age of the participants was 30 years (SD 4; range 22–43 years). The median gestational age was 25 weeks (range 4–40 weeks). The participants were predominantly multiparous (54%) and almost all (98%) had completed secondary level education. Majority of participants were aware of the spread of COVID-19 by respiratory secretions and contact (90%), and the importance of prevention strategies (94%). Up to 72% agreed or strongly agreed that in-utero transmission of SARS-CoV-2 was possible. Most were unsure of the optimal mode of delivery (77%) and only 22% believed that breastfeeding was safe in a pregnant woman with active COVID-19. Although 46% were concerned about increased transmission risk with antenatal clinic visits, only 37% were agreeable to teleconferencing of clinic appointments. Maternal age >35 years was significantly associated with agreement with separation of mother-infant after birth [AOR 1.89 (95% CI 1.05, 3.39)], restrictions of visitors during the postnatal period [1.92 (1.05, 3.49)] and having their confinement practices were affected [2.3 (1.26, 4.17)]. Pregnant women who were multiparous disagreed that breastfeeding was safe in women with active COVID-19 [0.42 (0.23, 0.75)].ConclusionsThere was significant uncertainty about the optimal delivery method and safety of breastfeeding with COVID-19 among expectant mothers, along with variable agreement with alterations to routine perinatal care.