Challenges in the care of children born to mothers diagnosed with COVID-19 during the pandemic

Abstract

Objective: To understand the challenges in the care of children born to mothers with COVID-19 during the pandemic. Method: Qualitative research, conducted from November 2020 to May 2021, in two public maternity hospitals, with women who had children during the first wave of the pandemic, diagnosed with COVID-19 during pregnancy and/or childbirth. There were nineteen semi-structured interviews with thematic analysis. Symbolic Interactionism was used as a theoretical framework. Results: Changes in the care for newborn children were identified. In the domestic environment, hygiene measures with the newborn children were intensified, social isolation restricted the support network and mothers felt alone and overwhelmed. In terms of health care, there was a setback in neonatal care and interruption of professional care, such as the suspension of appointments. Conclusion: The pandemic has restructured traditional models of family care, intensified difficulties in accessing healthcare, and exposed children to inherent risks due to a lack of proper follow-up.