What Was the Pandemic’s Devastating Impact on Women’s Health Care?
The COVID-19 pandemic didn’t just overwhelm hospitals and strain medical workers—it hit women’s healthcare systems hard. From cancelled appointments and restricted reproductive services to increased maternal mortality and mental health issues, women globally bore the brunt of disrupted care.
How the Pandemic Disrupted Female Healthcare Access
Lockdowns, overwhelmed hospitals, and fear of infection caused massive disruptions in women’s routine and essential care. Many experienced:
- Postponed gynaecological check-ups and cancer screenings
- Delayed prenatal and postnatal care
- Reduced access to contraception and abortion services
- Interrupted fertility treatments like IVF
Maternal Mortality Rates Rose Worldwide
Countries with already fragile maternal health systems saw devastating consequences. According to WHO reports:
- Global maternal deaths increased due to inaccessible emergency obstetric care
- Delayed C-sections and lack of skilled birth attendants were frequent issues
- Pregnant women with COVID-19 faced higher risk of ICU admission and death
Mental Health Toll on Women and New Mothers
The isolation, economic hardship, and health anxiety led to a spike in mental health issues, especially among mothers and expecting women. Common concerns included:
- Increased rates of postpartum depression and anxiety
- Loneliness from giving birth without partners due to restrictions
- Fear of virus transmission to newborns
Access to Reproductive and Sexual Health Services Plummeted
- STI testing and cervical screenings dropped sharply
- In many areas, birth control was unavailable due to supply chain disruptions
- Access to safe abortions declined, especially in rural or restricted areas
UNFPA estimated that up to 12 million women lost access to contraception during 2020–2021, leading to unintended pregnancies.
Domestic Violence and Abuse Cases Rose
With lockdowns and economic stress, many women were trapped in abusive environments. Shelters were full or inaccessible. Hotlines saw an unprecedented rise in calls.
How the Pandemic Impacted Low-Income and Minority Women More
Women in marginalised communities faced the harshest consequences due to pre-existing healthcare gaps. Barriers included:
- Limited internet access for telehealth
- Lack of transport to clinics
- Language and cultural barriers in health communication
Internal Reads on Women’s Health Crisis and Recovery
Global Health Response and What Still Needs Work
- Many health systems now prioritise maternal health in post-COVID recovery plans
- Digital telehealth services are expanding access to rural women
- However, gender health disparities still remain wide
FAQs
Q: Was it safe for pregnant women to get the COVID-19 vaccine?
A: Yes. Health authorities like the CDC and WHO recommend vaccination for pregnant women to prevent severe illness.
Q: Why did maternal mortality increase during COVID?
A: Primarily due to reduced access to skilled birth care and delayed emergency treatments.
Q: Are things returning to normal?
A: While many services have resumed, millions of women still face backlogs, economic hardship, and limited care in remote areas.
Final Word
The pandemic uncovered and worsened the existing cracks in women’s healthcare systems. It’s a wake-up call that reproductive rights, maternal care, and emotional health should never be secondary—even in global crises. The lessons learned must fuel better, more resilient care for every woman, everywhere.