Characterizing the coping styles linked with adverse psychosocial outcomes in perinatal females during coronavirus outbreak will assist to mitigate the potential for long-lasting sequelae on both mothers and infants, according to a large-scale, multicenter study published in Scientific Reports. In this analysis, a data-driven approach was utilized for identifying the patterns of behavioral coping approaches that link with maternal psychosocial distress during SARS-CoV-2 outbreak in a large multicenter sample of pregnant females (N = 2876) and postpartum females (N = 1536).

The collection of data was done from nine states across the United States. Females reported behaviors they were engaging in to combat pandemic-linked stress; symptoms of anxiety, depression, and global psychological distress; as well as alterations in the energy levels, sleep quality and levels of stress. Utilizing latent profile assessment, 4 distinct behavioral phenotypes of coping tactics were recognized.

Notably, phenotypes with elevated levels of passive coping tactics (higher screen time, social media, and consumption of comfort foods) were found to be linked with raised symptoms of anxiety disorders, depression, and global psychological distress, as well as worsening stress and energy levels, relative to other coping phenotypes.

On the other hand, phenotypes with high levels of active coping strategies (self-care, social support) were linked with higher resiliency with respect to other phenotypes. The recognition of these extensive coping phenotypes illustrates new behavioral patterns linked with the risk and resiliency to pandemic-linked stress in perinatal females.

The results of this study can aid in the early identification of females at risk for poor long-term outcomes and signify malleable targets for interventions aimed at alleviating long-lasting consequences on females and children during coronavirus outbreak.