Understanding the Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on the Prenatal Care of a Group of Pregnant Hispanic Women living in Puerto Rico

Abstract

Objective: To understand the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the prenatal care of pregnant Hispanic women living in Puerto Rico. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study. The participants’ profiles were determined through an online questionnaire to analyze COVID-19 related behaviors and experiences. Results: Our sample comprised 131 women with an average age of 28 years (±5.3 years). Most of the population was pregnant at the time of the interview (74.8%; n = 98), and the rest were in their post-partum period. Overall, 46.5% (n = 61) of the patients indicated that their prenatal care did not change during the pandemic. In addition, 92.50% (n = 111) reported not altering their plans for breastfeeding their babies. Overall, 77.86% of the participants reported feeling scared or overwhelmed due to the current pandemic, and 97% agreed that COVID testing should be performed as a screening method in all pregnant females. Conclusion: Our findings describe the characteristics of pregnant Hispanic females living in Puerto Rico. The majority reported adhering adequately to their health services, with few or no changes in their prenatal care.