Pregnant women’s psychological responses to COVID-19 in China: A cross-sectional study

The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly affected mental health, particularly among pregnant women. While its impact during the peak of the outbreak has been studied, little is known about its effects during the remission phase. Understanding these changes is essential for effective support. This study assessed the psychological responses experienced by pregnant women in China from February to May 2020. The research examines 550 participants using validated instruments, including the IES-R (α=0.89), Social Support Scale (α=0.82), and Lifestyle Assessment (α=0.80). The analysis reveals three key findings: First, psychological distress peaks during the second trimester (IES score: 36.5±17.6), with 87.4% reporting helplessness, while social support reaches its highest level (98.6% family caregiving). Second, first-trimester participants demonstrate the highest perceived vulnerability (89.6%) despite showing the poorest preventive knowledge (61.6%). Third, lifestyle modifications prioritize mental health (86.6-96.5% improvement) over physical activity (9.6-29.6% increase). The study highlights the necessity for trimester-specific interventions: mental health screening in the first trimester, targeted support during the second trimester, and enhanced education in the third trimester. These findings provide evidence for developing culturally adapted prenatal care protocols during public health crises.