To examine the impact of war-related stress and trauma on women's reproductive behavior and perinatal mental health in conflict-affected Ukraine.
Approach:
Data Collection: Data will be collected through web-based questionnaires and routine clinical records at baseline, and at 3, 6, and 12 months, capturing various aspects of mental health and reproductive behavior.
Key Findings:
Approximately 4.7% of mothers develop childbirth-related posttraumatic stress disorder.
Postpartum depression prevalence is estimated at 14.0% to 24.7%.
Anxiety disorders affect between 8.5% and 20.7% of pregnant or postpartum women.
Women in Ukraine face pregnancy and motherhood amid threats, displacement, and disrupted healthcare.
Interpretation:
The study aims to explore how armed conflicts influence psychological vulnerability and reproductive decision-making among women.
Limitations:
Limited empirical studies on perinatal mental health in low- and middle-income countries, particularly in conflict settings.
Existing research primarily conducted in high-income settings with stable healthcare systems, which may not reflect the unique challenges faced in Ukraine.
Conclusion:
The findings may provide insights into the experiences of women affected by war, but further research is needed to understand their implications for care.
