Pregnant women were particularly vulnerable to the psychological impacts of the pandemic since advice regarding COVID-19 and pregnancy was constantly evolving. The multidisciplinary project led by Dr Christoph Lehner investigated the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on mental health during pregnancy and childbirth effects.

The uncertainty during the pandemic period led to increased anxiety for expectant parents. The changes in patient care, including reduced physical contact and social isolation, were considered a risk to the emotional distress of pregnant women. While offering maternity virtual and telehealth care was a significant attempt to reduce the maternal risk of exposure to the COVID-19 virus in the hospital environment, it also resulted in social isolation and, possibly, lack of support for pregnant women. Understanding the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on pregnant women’s mental health can mean early detection and intervention, which is crucial to improving maternity care.

The study’s first results showed that the COVID-19 pandemic did not impact pregnancy anxiety or depression. However, the psychosocial consequences were negative, with increased mental health illnesses and social work referrals. Unrelated to maternal COVID-19 infection, the study also noted higher morbidity among newborns during their first month. Researchers identified that alterations in patient care during pregnancy due to the pandemic likely contributed to these consequences. The findings highlighted the importance of establishing a mental health service for pregnant women in need during public health crises, like a pandemic, to avoid adverse effects on the mother, the newborn and the family.