The COVID-19 outbreak increases maternal stress during pregnancy, but not the risk for postpartum depression

• DOI: 10.1007/s00737-021-01104-9
• Publication Date: 2021-04-08T08:03:18Z
• Authors: Myrthe G. B. M. B...; Lotte Muskens; Lianne P. Hulsbosch; Katrijn Van Deun; Veerle Bergink; Victor J. M. Pop; Marion I. van den...
• Keywords: Pandemic; Depression

Abstract The COVID-19 pandemic affects society and may especially have an impact on mental health of vulnerable groups, such as perinatal women. This prospective cohort study 669 participating women in the Netherlands compared symptoms depression stress during before pandemic. After a pilot 2018, recruitment started 7 January 2019. Up until 1 March 2020 (before pandemic), 401 completed questionnaires pregnancy, whom 250 also postpartum assessment. During pandemic, 268 filled out at least one questionnaire pregnancy 59 (1 March–14 May 2020). Pregnancy-specific increased significantly We found no increase depressive nor incidence high levels Clinicians should be aware potential for pregnant