Heterogeneity of emotional distress in pregnancy during COVID-19 pandemic: a latent profile analysis.

Abstract

Background: Emotional distress, including depressive and anxiety symptoms, is a common concern among pregnant individuals and has negative impacts on maternal and offspring's health. Previous studies indicated the heterogeneity of perinatal emotional distress. Moreover, during the pandemic of COVID-19, expectant mothers are faced with more tough challenges, which could exacerbate their emotional distress.

Objective: The aim of present study is to examine potential subgroups with distinct profiles on emotional distress and relationship resources during the pandemic.

Methods: A total of 187 pregnant people in China were recruited from April 22 to May 16 in 2020. Latent profile analysis was applied based on prenatal depressive and anxiety symptoms, COVID-19-related negative emotions, prenatal attachment, marital satisfaction and family sense of coherence.

Results: Four subgroups were identified. Group 1 and Group 2 shared with low levels of emotional distress and COVID-19-related negative emotions, among which Group 1 had plenty of relationship resources, while Group 2 had insufficient support. Group 3 had moderate levels of emotional distress but above-average prenatal attachment. Group 4 was a highly distressed subtype with severe emotional distress and poor states across all domains.

Conclusion: Our findings support that emotion distress among expecting mothers is heterogeneous, highlighting the need for tailed interventions to address the specific needs of subgroups during pregnancy.