Publication Date

4-25-2021

Document Type

Essay

First Advisor

Rudnicki, Mary D.

Degree Name

B.S. (Bachelor of Science)

Legacy Department

School of Nursing

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic significantly affected how women experience pregnancy and the postpartum period. A literature review was conducted to determine how COVID-19 affected the wellbeing and mental health of women in the United States who were pregnant in 2020 or 2021. This literature review focused on effects of COVID-19 on the general population in the U.S.; how pregnant women perceive effects of COVID-19; how pregnancy effects the mental health of women; and how these women are screened for postpartum depression and other adverse conditions or effects. Findings showed that the incidence of mental health issues in the U.S. increased significantly in 2020, and that pregnant women reported increased stress and difficulties during pregnancy due to factors caused by COVID-19. To successfully assess pregnant and postpartum women for postpartum depression and other negative effects brought by COVID-19, women should be routinely screened using a standardized postpartum depression screening tool that includes additional statements related to adverse effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Extent

12 pages

Language

eng

Publisher

Northern Illinois University

Rights Statement

In Copyright

Rights Statement 2

NIU theses are protected by copyright. They may be viewed from Huskie Commons for any purpose, but reproduction or distribution in any format is prohibited without the written permission of the authors.

Media Type

Text

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