Experiences of postnatal contraceptive care during the COVID-19 pandemic: a multimethods cross-sectional study

PMCID: PMC12182104

PMID: 40527556

DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2024-095608

Journal: BMJ open

Publication Date: 2025

Authors: Kelly S, Moffat M, Thompson C, Jackowich R, Möller-Christensen C, et al.

Key Points

• Women who delivered in 2020 had significantly fewer postnatal healthcare provider contacts compared to 2021-2022 cohorts
• Only 42.7% of women in the 2020 lockdown group were offered PNC on the postnatal ward, compared to 70.7% in 2022
• Healthcare systems should develop more patient-centered, flexible approaches to postnatal contraception care, particularly during crisis periods

Summary

This study examined the impact of the first COVID-19 lockdown on postnatal contraception (PNC) care in the North East and North Cumbria Integrated Care System, analyzing survey responses from women who delivered between 2020-2022. The research revealed significant disruptions to postnatal healthcare during the 2020 lockdown period, with women experiencing substantially fewer healthcare provider contacts, reduced midwife and health visitor interactions, and less comprehensive postnatal care compared to subsequent years.

Despite the reduced healthcare interactions, the study found no significant differences in overall PNC uptake or contraception methods between the lockdown and non-lockdown periods. Qualitative analysis highlighted women's perceptions of COVID-19's negative impact on care, with many reporting limited access to preferred contraception methods and feeling pressured during PNC discussions. The findings suggest that while the pandemic exacerbated existing challenges in postnatal care, these systemic issues predated COVID-19.