Assessment of the emotional state of women in the early postpartum period during the COVID-19 pandemic

Abstract

The study aimed to assess the emotional state of women in the early postpartum period during the COVID-19 pandemic.The study was carried out using the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10) and the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scales (EPDS). Sociodemographic data (e.g., age, marital status, education) and information concerning the women’s pregnancy and childbirth were collected using the authors’ own survey. That survey also included questions about childbirth-related fears, sources of knowledge about childbirth and infant care, physical activity and participation in childbirth classes. The study consisted of 224 postpartum women, of whom 124 were examined during the COVID-19 pandemic (between March and June 2021). The data obtained were compared with the results of the examinations carried out prior to the pandemic (100 women were examined between February 2019 and May 2019).In both of the analysed groups, the mean stress was at an average level. However, in the COVID-19 group, a significantly higher level of perceived stress was noted. In this group, most women were experiencing high levels of stress.Regardless of the research results, providing women with comprehensive perinatal care is essential, irrespective of the existing epidemiological situation in a given country.