Alliance for Pandemic Preparedness

November 24, 2020

Risk Factors for Depression, Anxiety, and PTSD Symptoms in Perinatal Women during the COVID-19 Pandemic

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A cross-sectional survey of 1,123 pregnant and postpartum women in the US (second trimester of pregnancy through 6 months after delivery) conducted from May to August 2020 found that 36% reported clinically significant levels of depression, 23% reported generalized anxiety, and 10% reported PTSD. Self-reported pre-existing mental health diagnoses increased the likelihood of scoring above the clinical threshold for depression, anxiety, and PTSD. Women who reported high levels of COVID-19-related health worries (18%) and high levels of grief (9%) were also at higher risk of scoring above the clinical threshold for mental health symptoms. 

Liu et al. (Nov 4, 2020). Risk Factors for Depression, Anxiety, and PTSD Symptoms in Perinatal Women during the COVID-19 Pandemic. Psychiatry Research. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.psychres.2020.113552