Becoming a mother in 2020

Background: Becoming a mother could be described as an exciting and transformative time for women. It is also understood that during pregnancy and the postnatal period, many mothers experience uncertainty and stress due to a myriad of issues including physical and psychosocial difficulties. COVID-19 generally had a profound impact on the mental health of the nation, as the pandemic produced physical health concerns, increased social isolation and financial difficulties. However, for those who became mothers during this time, this experience was even more impactful as they were completing this transition in an uncertain world.

This systematic review intended to examine the experiences of women who became mothers during 2020, and to understand how they felt during this time of uncertainty and change.

Method: The literature from the results of six databases, was systematically searched. Papers were then screened and selected in line with pre-defined inclusion and exclusion criteria, using the PRISMA method.

The remaining papers were then subjected to a quality assessment using a qualitative critical appraisal tool. A total of 17 studies met the inclusion criteria and were included in this review.

Outcomes: Six main themes emerged from the review: 1) Change to support and relationships, 2) Feeling alone, 3) Missing out on things that were expected, 4) Fear of the COVID-19 virus, 5) Mental health and emotional difficulties and 6) Silver linings.

Discussion: Women who became mothers during 2020 described their experience as significantly influenced by the COVID-19 pandemic, which resulted in changes to their expectations of how motherhood would be. Further research is needed into the experience of women from minority ethnic backgrounds, as the majority of the women who took part in the research that was synthesised were White.