TABLE 3.

Summary of themes and key findings from our qualitative analysis.

	Main themes	Key findings
Benefits of lockdown	1. Enhancing bonding with baby within the nuclear family	Lockdown leading to uninterrupted time and “protection” of the nuclear family, leading to better bonding Facilitated by high levels of practical support from the partner
Costs of lockdown	2. The burden of constant mothering	Lack of practical support and childcare leading to the intensification of domestic and caregiving tasks Increased feelings of exhaustion and guilt
	3. Inadequacy of virtual contact	The lack of “incidental support” with virtual contact Lack on information transmission and affirmative support leading to low maternal confidence
	4. Lost opportunities	Inability to expand mother-infant social networks Feelings of sadness for lost experiences, for both mum and baby Worries about baby’s development due to lack of physical contact with others