Psychological Impact of COVID-19 Pandemic on Pregnant Women

Abstract

Background: Covid-19 pandemic has spread throughout the world in a short period of time. It has adversely affected the physical, mental and social well-being of communities including pregnant women. This study is aimed to determine the frequency, severity and associated factors of depression, anxiety and stress among pregnant women during COVID-19 pandemic. Material and Methods:  This cross-sectional study was conducted in Sharif Medical City Hospital, Lahore, from August to September 2020.Data was obtained on structured proforma comprised of two sections. Section one consisted of sociodemographic and obstetric components while second two was based on Urdu Version of DASS-21. Data was analyzed using SPSS-23. Results: Total number of women was 350. Their mean age was 27.47 ± 4.72 while mean duration of their pregnancy was 26.33±9.17weeks.  Mean DASS-21 score of depression, anxiety, and stress was 8.00±2.89, 5.80±3.10 and 9.18±2.80 respectively. It was observed that depression was present in 123(35.1%) ranging from mild to moderate, anxiety in 127(36.3%) ranging from mild to very severe and stress in only 20(5.7%) women and was mild. Education was significantly associated with all three domains.  The women who were infected themselves or any other family member affected with COVID-19 showed positive association for depression (p=0.00) and stress (p=0.00).  Stress was higher in young age groups (p=0.04) and in women with higher monthly income (p=0.00) while parity also showed association with anxiety (p=001).  Anxiety and depression were more in house wives (p=0.00) while stress in working women (p=0.00). Conclusion:  Frequency of depression and anxiety was notable varying from mild to very severe however for stress it was low and mild. Educational level was significantly associated with depression, anxiety, and stress.