The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Perinatal Depression and Anxiety: A Large Cross-sectional Study in Spain.

BACKGROUND

The current COVID-19 pandemic is a unique stressor with potentially negative consequences for pregnant and postpartum women. We investigated the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on perinatal depression and anxiety in Spain.

METHOD

This cross-sectional study was conducted from June to December 2020. A total of 3,356 adult pregnant and postpartum women (with infants up to 6 months of age) from all Spanish regions were surveyed. The assessment included measures of Coronavirus Perinatal Experiences (COPE-IS questionnaire) and Generalized Anxiety Disorder Screener (GAD-7=10) and Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS=10).

RESULTS

The prevalence of perinatal anxiety and depression (above established cut-offs) was 33.3% and 47.2%, respectively; 29.2% of women screened positive for both conditions. Higher rates of perinatal depression and anxiety were associated with increased concern about threats of COVID-19, especially employment and the financial impact, along with increased overall levels of distress. Exposure to COVID-19 and its symptoms did not appear to be a relevant risk factor. More COVID-19-related predictors and a higher rate of depression were found in postpartum women.

CONCLUSIONS

The current study highlights the substantial increase in symptoms of perinatal depression and anxiety, especially in postpartum women. Interventions for perinatal mental health should be a priority.