Childbirth Experiences of Women who Gave Birth during the COVID-19 Pandemic in the Tohoku Region of Japan: An Internet-based Questionnaire Survey

Aims: Perinatal women might have a negative experience with childbirth owing to the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, and their parenting attitudes or mental state could be affected. We used an Internet survey to clarify the experiences of women who gave birth during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Study Design: Quantitative descriptive research.

Place and Duration of Study: Four maternal and child health facilities at a prefecture of Tohoku region from August 14, 2021, to May 29, 2022.

Methodology: We used an Internet-based questionnaire survey. A total of 103 mothers of children undergoing checkups between three- to four-month and 1.5-year were included in our analysis. Descriptive statistics were obtained from participants’ basic information and free answers were compiled regarding their experiences with childbirth during COVID-19.

Results: The surveyed women believed that the pandemic’s main effect was the inability of family members to be present during their health checkups. Owing to the pandemic, 42 women (40.8%) were severely stressed during their pregnancy as they could not see their families outside the prefecture or go out freely. Additionally, most women were denied or restricted family attendance and care during childbirth. Even after leaving the hospital, they could not seek consultation regarding their health and childcare, had to manage childcare and housework alone, refrained from going out owing to the fear of infection, and felt anxious and lonely. Some women appreciated the medical staff, stating that they were dependable and available to talk to, while others reported that the nurses were strict and overbearing. Participants demanded not only that nurses provide infection control measures but also psychological care.

Conclusion: Women experienced anxiety, loneliness, and isolation owing to COVID-19-related restrictions and feared for their own and their children’s health. Following discharge from the hospital, childcare support should be provided by healthcare professionals.