Maternity in times of the Covid-19 pandemic: what mothers admitted in a reference hospital have to tell us

Abstract

The Covid-19 pandemic has affected all aspects of our lives. Women in the perinatal period have unique needs, demanding health and safety guidelines regarding the risks associated to social isolation. The objective was to know the women’s experience during pregnancy or puerperium in the pandemic while being cared at a hospital. Qualitative study referenced on concepts of integrality of care and daily life. Eighteen pregnant and postpartum participated. Three themes emerged: Repercussions on pregnancy and puerperium, repercussions on practical life, and coping strategies created by women. The reports reveal different repercussions of the pandemic in the lives of women and their families, also the strategies and precautions used to mitigate its adverse effects. We suggest directing preventive measures and public health policies to prioritize pregnant and postpartum women, recognizing and embracing subjective issues involved at this moment in women’s lives.

“We Live Our Life Normal”: A Qualitative Analysis of Nigerian Women’s Health-Seeking Behavior during the COVID-19 Pandemic

“…However, from the women’s statements, COVID-19 protocols created additional barriers at the hospital. A study in Brazil also made a similar finding that changes in maternal practices at the hospital affected women’s mental health and well-being [ 64 ]. This finding highlights the need for a more empathetic and accommodating public infrastructure that considers the impact preventive measures could have on creating negative perceptions of the health systems and health workers.…”