Impact of stressful life events, including the COVID-19 pandemic, on stillbirth rates: a study in Jordan

ABSTRACT
Objectives. Pregnancy is a transformative period marked by various Stressful Life Events (SLEs), ranging from personal to widespread occurrences, potentially impacting maternal well-being. Against the backdrop of increasing global incidents, both natural and man-made, this study examines the influence of SLEs, including pandemics, on the incidence of stillbirth
Materials and Methods. This is a retrospective cross-sectional study analyzing data sourced from delivery records at University Hospital. The study focuses specifically on recent SLEs, notably the initial COVID-19 lockdown, in comparison to periods before and after the lockdown, aiming to elucidate the correlation between these events and the incidence of stillbirth.
Results. A total of 6533 deliveries were examined, revealing a substantial increase in stillbirth incidence during the first COVID-19 lockdown compared to pre- and post-lockdown periods. Analysis showed a significant difference in stillbirth rates across the three periods, with the highest incidence during the lockdown without COVID-19 cases (1.8%)which was statistically significant with a P-value < 0.05.
Conclusions. This study sheds light on the nexus between SLEs and stillbirth rates, emphasizing the necessity for heightened awareness and customized healthcare approaches during challenging times. Further exploration and nuanced understanding of the impact of SLEs on maternal and fetal health are imperative for devising effective interventions and support systems for pregnant women amidst crises.