Perinatal mental health and care. Intersections and reconfigurations in the context of the Covid-19 pandemic, in Argentina

Abstract

Perinatal mental health refers to the psychosocial processes that occur during pregnancy, childbirth and the postpartum period. A study was carried out with a quantitative-qualitative design, with quota sampling, with pregnant and postpartum women from three hospitals in two Argentine provinces during the Covid-19 pandemic. An in-person survey was conducted with 300 women. The results indicate a slight increase in care time and a decrease in time dedicated to paid work. A great concern was found among women about changes in health care, the care and health of their children, and the daily management of care. A high incidence of anxiety in pregnant women and postpartum depression was recorded. Studying maternal mental health and the organization of care from a gender perspective allows for a more comprehensive understanding of the suffering of women mothers understood as social subjects.