A Cross-Sectional Study of Maternal Views regarding COVID-19 Pandemic

Abstract Aim: Covid-19 Pandemic impacted pregnant and postnatal women and the healthcare systems. We performed this study to see the perspectives of pregnant and postnatal women regarding the COVID-19 Pandemic. Methods: This cross-sectional knowledge, attitudes, practices (KAP) survey was conducted between 15/05/2021 to 15/06/2021 in a General hospital in Ireland and included pregnant and postnatal women via convenience sampling. Results: The study participants were 183, including 144 (79%) pregnant and 30 (21%) postnatal women. Most women identified COVID-19 correctly as a viral droplet infection. The number of women who were concerned because of the Pandemic (136/172=79%), affected by social distancing (106/183=58%), and hospital policy for visitor restrictions (161/183=88%), due to the COVID-19 Pandemic is quite alarming. More women reported that the GP services were compromised as compared to hospital services (84/183=46% Vs 52/206=29%). Conclusions: The women expressed deterioration of both GP and hospital services and a rise in psychological distress during the Pandemic. The use of telemedicine and virtual clinics can’t be overemphasized to help the depleted healthcare resources. The effects of the Pandemic on maternal health can’t be fully elucidated; thus, there is a need for ongoing research, innovation, and strategies