Anxiety, depression, and knowledge level in postpartum women during the COVID-19 pandemic

Abstract

Purpose: This study aimed to assess anxiety, depression, and knowledge level in postpartum women during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Design and methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted on 212 postpartum women using a web-based online survey in Ankara, Turkey.

Findings: The prevalence of depression was 34.0%. The mean anxiety and COVID-19 knowledge scores were 42.69 ± 9.93 and 9.69 ± 1.94, respectively. There was a statistically significant difference between the anxiety scores and depression status (p < 0.001) of women. There were statistically significant differences between fear about being infected with COVID-19 for themselves (p = 0.01) and for babies (p = 0.01) and the postpartum depression (PPD).

Practice implications: During the COVID-19 pandemic, early detection and appropriate and timely intervention to prevent and detect anxiety and PPD are crucial to the well-being of a woman.

Keywords: COVID-19; anxiety; depression; knowledge; nursing; postpartum women.