The Effects of Lockdown during the Covid Pandemic on Fetal Movement Profiles

Abstract Purpose The current study aimed to investigate the direct impact of the Covid-19 lockdown on fetal movements, addressing a critical research gap. While previous research has predominantly examined the effects of lockdown on maternal health and postnatal outcomes, little attention has been paid to the direct consequences on fetal well-being. Methods We conducted a comparative analysis of movement profiles in 20 healthy fetuses during the Covid-19 pandemic lockdown (third national UK lockdown period between January and March 2021) and compared them with 20 healthy fetuses from pre-covid pregnancies, all at 32 weeks gestation. We controlled for maternal stress, depression, and anxiety. Results Pregnant mothers during pre-covid compared with those during the Covid-19 lockdown reported similar levels of stress (p = 0.47), depression (p = 0.15), and anxiety (p = 0. 07). Their fetuses, however, differed in their movement profiles with mouth movement frequencies significantly higher during Covid-19 lockdown (Covid-19 lockdown: mean of 5.909; p = 0.029) being compared to pre-Covid pregnancies (mean of 3.308). Controlling for maternal anxiety a regression analysis indicated that fetal mouth movements (p = 0.017), upper face movements (p = 0.008), and touch movements (p = 0.031) were all significantly higher in fetuses observed during lockdown compared to fetuses before the Covid period. Conclusion Fetuses show an effect of lockdown independent of maternal anxiety, stress, or depression. These findings contribute to our understanding of fetal development during extraordinary circumstances, raising questions about the potential effects of reduced light exposure and its implications for maternal thyroid function during lockdowns.