Pyschological traumatic perinatal experiences during the Covid-19 pandemic, epigenetic hypothesis and protective suggestions

Gözde Gökçe İsbir*, Jonathan Turner*, Rosita Gabbianelli

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticleResearchpeer-review

Abstract

Whether Covid-19 will continue with different viral mutations it will last is not yet known. For this reason, correct management of the process becomes important in order to ensure that future generations are least affected by this experience. This literature review aims to discuss hypotheses for the epigenetic effect of perinatal experiences affecting mental health during the Covid-19 pandemic and protective intervention recommendations. A comprehensive understanding of epigenetic mechanisms can allow early risk detection and directed prevention and intervention strategies. There is a need for epigenetic studies that monitor the short- and long-term effects in women/infants going through the perinatal period during the Covid-19 pandemic. Epigenetic studies are costly and take a long time. At this time where the pandemic is still ongoing, it is predicted that the negative effects will be reduced by predicting epigenetic effects and taking protective approaches in line with the results obtained from previous studies. These will be possible with the collective work of multidisciplinary team members. Mental health care professionals should receive training on epigenetics in the perinatal period and should be able to integrate it into counseling processes.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)18863-18873
Number of pages11
JournalCurrent Psychology
Volume43
Issue number20
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - May 2024

Keywords

  • Covid-19
  • Epigenetic hypothesis
  • Mental health nursing
  • Midwifery
  • Traumatic perinatal experience

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