Delays in Infant Hearing Detection and Intervention During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Commentary Comment

Summary: This study investigated how the COVID-19 pandemic has impacted pregnancy, prenatal care practices, and infant feeding plans among pregnant individuals in the United States. Most pregnant women felt they received safe prenatal care, but some considered changing the birth location due to the pandemic, and the ability to acquire necessary baby items was affected by the pandemic.

Summary: The study investigated birth experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic, finding that respondents from highly impacted states more frequently changed their birth location, and Black respondents reported higher rates of preterm births and lower respect scores compared to White respondents. Through content analysis, six themes were identified: Institutional Policies, Changes in Care, Hospital Staff Interactions, Sub-par Care, Issues of Support, and Mental Health. Healthcare community needs to adapt policies and procedures to support birthing patients and address racial disparities in respectful care.