Slipping through the net: A qualitative study exploring women’s experiences of maternity in the UK during the COVID-19 pandemic

Background : The quality of maternity experiences impacts the health and wellbeing of both the mother and baby. Widespread changes were made to maternity care and social support during the COVID-19 pandemic in the UK, altering the usual experience of pregnancy, birth and postnatal care. Remote care appointments and hospital/home visiting restrictions affected the extent to which women could receive medical, social, and emotional support. The aim of this study was to explore women’s experiences of pregnancy, birth, and the postnatal period during the COVID-19 pandemic in South East England. Methods : In-depth interviews were conducted with participants who had given birth during the COVID-19 pandemic. Participants were recruited from mother and baby groups and data were analysed thematically. Results : Women felt isolated and under-supported during the perinatal period. This was most noted in the postnatal wards by women who experienced immobilisation and pain following caesarean section. Reported positive experiences were improved opportunity to bond with their child and avoidance of undue external child-rearing pressures and pregnancy-related negative stories. Telemedicine was considered useful for some participants, and felt unsafe for others. Innovative use of social media to share up-to-date information improved crucial communication. Conclusions : Changes in staffing and visiting restrictions contributed to unsatisfactory experiences at home and on postnatal wards. The study highlights shortcomings in pandemic maternity services, and the importance of planning for future critical incidents, to promote positive maternal and child health outcomes. Telemedicine and social media have the potential to improve care and foster a sense of community in maternity services, however, further evaluation to ensure safety is needed.