PREVALENCE OF DEPRESSION AND ITS ASSOCIATED FACTORS DURING 2ND WAVE OF COVID-19 AMONG PREGNANT WOMEN IN A TERTIARY CARE HOSPITAL, LAHORE

Abstract

Purpose of the study: Antenatal depression is a significant predictor for postnatal depression, and pregnant women with depressive symptoms have an increased risk of frequent non-scheduled medical and emergency visits. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the antenatal depression and its related factors and effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on the frequency of antenatal visits. Methodology: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted from July to September 2020 with 220 pregnant women from the Gynae Outpatient Department at the Tertiary Care Hospital of Lahore. Women aged 18–45 years with no pregnancy-related complications were included. The Patient Health Questionnaire-9 tool was used to screen for antenatal depression, and a self-structured questionnaire was developed to explore depression-related factors. Main Findings: Antenatal depression prevalence was found very high among pregnant women during the second wave of Covid-19 and pandemic did not affect regular antenatal visits of women. Applications of this study: Mental disorders are associated with several individuals and societal factors, including feelings of insecurity and hopelessness, exposure to violence, physical ill health, and rapid social change. The existing pandemic situation, working from home, temporary unemployment, home-schooling of children, lack of contact and social support, it is important to look after mental and physical health especially women in pregnancy who can suffer from more severe mental health problems and can affect ANC visits that directly related to maternal and child health. Novelty/Originality of this study: Depression in pregnancy is associated with severe complications and prevents patients from taking an active role in their healthcare. Women with depressive symptoms have an increased risk of frequent non-scheduled antenatal care (ANC) visits and emergency healthcare visits for pregnancy-related emergencies especially in the 2nd wave of COVID-19. It was very important to study the factors related to antenatal depression during this pandemic. Counselling and awareness may improve the physical and mental health of pregnant women.