This report explores maternal and perinatal characteristics and outcomes during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 and 2021, in comparison with years prior to 2020. This includes information on demographics, antenatal health behaviours, labour and birth trends and baby outcomes. It is important to note that this report describes the changes observed between pre-pandemic and pandemic years but is not able to determine the cause of these changes.
- Cat. no: PER 126
Findings from this report:
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During 2020 and 2021, fewer than expected babies were born pre-term
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During 2020 and 2021, fewer women had induced labour than expected
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During 2020 and 2021, fewer first-time mothers attended the recommended 10 or more antenatal visits
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During 2020 and 2021, both mothers and babies had shorter hospital stays after birth than expected