Aim: In the Pregnant in a Pandemic (PiP) study we explored pregnant women’s experiences and views on social distancing during the Covid-19 pandemic. The aim was to improve guidance and support. We also asked about the impact of the pandemic on access to, and attitudes towards, routine maternal vaccines and views on testing Covid-19 vaccines on pregnant women.

What we did: We interviewed 31 pregnant women (at all stages of pregnancy) via telephone/videoconference between 24 April and 7 May 2020 (at the height of the first UK lockdown). We then produced an infographic (see below) to address key questions and support conversations with midwives. 

What we found (in brief): Despite challenges to social distancing, women were hugely restricting their lives, many going beyond the recommendations. They described stress and uncertainty about risks, requirements, and loss of healthcare, as well as negative mental health effects. The women we interviewed were generally 'pro vaccines' but wary of getting a new vaccine when pregnant and had safety concerns around attending appointments. Please see our publications for more details.

PUBLICATIONS:

2) Anderson E, Brigden A, Davies A, Shepherd E, Ingram I. (2021) Maternal vaccines during the Covid-19 pandemic: A qualitative interview study with UK pregnant women. Midwifery. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.midw.2021.103062

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INFOGRAPHIC (DOWNLOADABLE):

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Ethical approval: The study was approved by the Faculty of Health Sciences Research Ethics Committee at the University of Bristol.