Exploring women's postpartum experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic: A mixed-method analysis

Problem: While studies across the United States have explored how the perinatal period was affected by COVID19, most studies have focused on pregnancy and delivery rather than on women's postpartum experiences. Background: Postpartum is a critical period of development for mothers and newborns, with factors such as maternal mental health and quality of mother-infant bonding playing instrumental roles in children's socioemotional outcomes. Yet, COVID-19 served as a significant stressor for many women and acted as a barrier to receiving postpartum supports. Aim: The current mixed-method analysis further elucidates women's postpartum experiences during COVID-19. Method: New mothers (N = 20) completed interviews on how the pandemic impacted their postpartum experience, as well as a survey about mental health and mother-infant bonding. Findings: Thematic analysis of interview data identified four themes: Uncertainty surrounding medical care and hospital policies; Lack of connection with social supports; Increased family bonding; Access to community resources. Survey data indicated 57.9 % of participants experienced anxiety symptoms, 68.4 % experienced depressive symptoms, and 36.8 % experienced some bonding difficulty. When evaluated together, it was found that women who endorsed time away from children during hospital stays had significantly lower postpartum anxiety and less difficulty bonding compared to women who did not endorse this subtheme, while women who reported isolation from leisure activities had significantly greater difficulty with bonding. Conclusion: The study highlights the importance of information sharing around community resources and indicates a need for further exploration of how various forms of social support (e.g., immediate family vs. broader networks) impact the wellbeing of postpartum women.