Perceived stress and life satisfaction in pregnant women during the COVID-19 pandemic: the mediating role of fear of childbirth and self-esteem.

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic adversely affected the functioning and well-being of pregnant women. Negative feelings during pregnancy and the difficult pandemic situation may be the reason behind the perceived fear of childbirth, which can negatively affect the pregnant women's life satisfaction. On the other hand, some protective factors, such as self-esteem, might mediate the relationship between perceived stress and well-being in pregnant women.

Fear of Coronavirus, Stress and Fear of Childbirth in Polish Pregnant Women during the COVID-19 Pandemic.

The COVID-19 pandemic is the largest pandemic of an aggressive coronavirus in the human population in the 21st century. The pandemic may have a negative emotional impact on pregnant women, causing fear and stress. Negative feelings during pregnancy later affect fear of childbirth.