Prevalence and associated factors of symptoms of anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress among postpartum women during the Covid-19 pandemic

Abstract

Pregnancy and the postpartum period can be particularly sensitive phases in a woman's life, marked by emotional and psychological vulnerabilities. The COVID-19 pandemic imposed unique challenges, increasing the risk of mental disorders in this population. Objective: To investigate the prevalence of symptoms of anxiety, depression, childbirth-related post-traumatic stress, and associated factors among postpartum women during the COVID-19 pandemic. Method: A quantitative, cross-sectional study linked to the "Perinatal Mental Health in the COVID-19 Pandemic" research. Participants were postpartum women admitted to a private hospital in São Paulo. Data collection occurred at two timepoints: during hospitalization, when sociodemographic, obstetric, and neonatal information was obtained, along with the application of the IDATE (State-Trait Anxiety Inventory), EPDS (Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale), and City Birth Trauma Scale; and between 35 to 45 days after childbirth. Results: Forty-three postpartum women participated in the study, with an average age of 35 years. Most had higher education, lived with their partner, and had high family income. Most newborns had good health indicators, such as skin-to-skin contact and breastfeeding in the first hour, with a high rate of exclusive breastfeeding. High prevalences of postpartum depression and anxiety were identified, with factors associated with a COVID-19 diagnosis during pregnancy. Conclusion: The study revealed high rates of depression and anxiety among postpartum women, especially those who had COVID-19 during pregnancy, impacting the mother-infant bond. Childbirth and gestational history also influenced mental disorders, potentially affecting child development.