Impact of COVID‐19 pandemic on postpartum depression among mothers of extreme and early preterm infants

Objective To examine the impact of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic and the resulting isolation measures on the risk of postpartum depression (PPD) after preterm birth. Methods This is a cross‐sectional study of mothers of extreme and early preterm infants who completed the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) at the standardized 3–6 months follow‐up consultation for preterm infants. Mothers assessed during the COVID‐19 pandemic ( n  = 34; from April 1, 2020 to March 31, 2021) were compared with an antecedent control group ( n  = 108; from January 1, 2017 to December 31, 2019). A multivariable logistic regression model was used to examine the relationship between the pandemic and the risk of PPD (EPDS score ≥13). Results The prevalence of depressive symptoms was significantly higher in the COVID‐19 study group (26% versus 12%, P  = 0.043). The multivariable logistic regression model showed a significant association between the COVID‐19 pandemic and the risk of PPD (adjusted odds ratio 3.60, 95% confidence interval 1.06–12.59, P  = 0.040). Conclusion Among mothers of extreme and early preterm infants, the COVID‐19 pandemic was independently associated with a higher risk of PPD. This confirms the need for a close and long‐term follow up of maternal psychological health after preterm birth.