Maternal Worries During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Cross-Sectional Study on Postpartum Women

Introduction: Since mothers often express higher levels of stress, anxiety and depression, it is important to evaluate the effect of COVID-19 on their mental health during pregnancy and postpartum. Objective: The aim of this study was to explore the concerns of mothers in the postpartum period amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: This was a descriptive cross-sectional study on 600 postpartum mothers. The sample size was determined based on the households covered by the health centers. The selected mothers completed a demographic questionnaire and Cambridge Worry Scale (CWS). Results: The mean age of study participants was 28.9 (6.3) and 364 (60.7%) mothers had excessive anxiety during pregnancy. The highest concern was related to the fear of congestion in the maternity ward with a mean of 2.48, and the lowest level of concern was related to the health status of the mother with a mean of 1.41. Conclusion: we recommend that the health sector adopt new methods of providing care to mothers. Implementation of tests for assessment of the mother's mental state during pregnancy by a midwife consultant is also recommended.