Impact of COVID-19 pandemic on postpartum depression among mothers of extreme and early preterm infants

Int J Gynaecol Obstet. 2021 Dec;155(3):490-495. doi: 10.1002/ijgo.13859. Epub 2021 Sep 8.

Abstract

Objective: To examine the impact of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic and the resulting isolation measures on the risk of postpartum depression (PPD) after preterm birth.

Methods: This is a cross-sectional study of mothers of extreme and early preterm infants who completed the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) at the standardized 3-6 months follow-up consultation for preterm infants. Mothers assessed during the COVID-19 pandemic (n = 34; from April 1, 2020 to March 31, 2021) were compared with an antecedent control group (n = 108; from January 1, 2017 to December 31, 2019). A multivariable logistic regression model was used to examine the relationship between the pandemic and the risk of PPD (EPDS score ≥13).

Results: The prevalence of depressive symptoms was significantly higher in the COVID-19 study group (26% versus 12%, P = 0.043). The multivariable logistic regression model showed a significant association between the COVID-19 pandemic and the risk of PPD (adjusted odds ratio 3.60, 95% confidence interval 1.06-12.59, P = 0.040).

Conclusion: Among mothers of extreme and early preterm infants, the COVID-19 pandemic was independently associated with a higher risk of PPD. This confirms the need for a close and long-term follow up of maternal psychological health after preterm birth.

Keywords: Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale; coronavirus disease 2019; pandemic; postpartum depression; preterm birth; risk factor.

MeSH terms

  • COVID-19*
  • Cross-Sectional Studies
  • Depression
  • Depression, Postpartum* / epidemiology
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Infant
  • Infant, Newborn
  • Infant, Premature
  • Mothers
  • Pandemics
  • Pregnancy
  • Premature Birth* / epidemiology
  • Risk Factors
  • SARS-CoV-2