Perinatal experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic in Scotland
Exploring the impact of changes in maternity services on women and staff

About this release

At the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic, pregnant women in the UK were classed as a vulnerable group. This, alongside national guidance on social distancing, resulted in marked changes to maternity service provision. This altered the experiences of women and staff accessing and providing maternity care in Scotland. It also raised concerns about whether inequalities in healthcare could increase further. Disadvantaged women were recognised to be at greater risk of economic hardship due to the pandemic, but also to be vulnerable to digital exclusion due to increased reliance on technology in delivery of care.

A research report, commissioned by Public Health Scotland and Scottish Government, has identified how maternity care has been experienced during the covid-19 pandemic. Perspectives of both staff and women are represented. The study was carried out by researchers at University of Aberdeen and University of Dundee.