Psychological risks to mother–infant bonding during the COVID-19 pandemic

Abstract

Background: The purpose of this study was to examine the association between mental health symptoms, along with psychological experiences and coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) related concerns, and self-reported maternal–infant bonding experiences of postpartum women. Methods: Using data collected from May 19 to August 17, 2020, this cross-sectional online study assessed 429 women to better understand the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on women during the postpartum period. Enrolled respondents were asked to participate in a 30–45-min online survey about COVID-19-related experiences, pregnancy, stress, and well-being. Results: Postpartum women’s depressive symptoms were related to lower quality maternal–infant bonding, but the anxiety symptoms were not associated with bonding. Maternal self-efficacy, but not social support, was associated with mothers’ higher quality of maternal–infant bonding. COVID-19-related grief was significantly associated with lower quality bonding. On the other hand, COVID-19-related health worries were associated with higher quality of maternal–infant bonding. Conclusions: We describe potential psychological risk factors to maternal–infant bonding among postpartum women during the pandemic period. To best support the medical and psychological well-being of the mothers and infants, enhanced interdisciplinary partnerships among perinatal healthcare professionals involved in primary and/or specialty care is needed. Impact: Unique COVID-19-related health and grief concerns exist, with implications for maternal–infant bonding.Depression but not anxiety is associated with lower maternal–infant bonding.Caregiving confidence, but not social support, is associated with higher maternal–infant bonding.It is critical to screen for postpartum depression and COVID-19-related grief during maternal follow-up and pediatric visits.Study findings inform and prioritize pediatric interventions toward enhancing maternal–infant bonding during the COVID-19 era.