JMIR Publications

ABSTRACT

Background:

Peripartum depression and anxiety disorders are highly prevalent and correlate with adverse maternal and neonatal outcomes. Antenatal care does not yet include structured screening and effective, low-threshold treatment options for women facing this problem. Mindfulness-based interventions (MBI) are increasingly becoming a focus of interest. Studies have shown a decrease in pregnancy-related stress and anxiety in expectant mothers following mindfulness programs.

Objective:

The aim of this study was to explore the clinical effectiveness of a 1-week electronic course of mindfulness on prenatal depression and anxiety in hospitalized, high-risk pregnant women. We hypothesized that participating in a 1-week electronic mindfulness-based course could alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety during the hospital stay.

Methods:

A prospective pilot study with an explorative study design was conducted in a sample of 68 women hospitalized due to high-risk pregnancies. After study enrollment, the participants were given access to an electronic mindfulness-based intervention (eMBI) application on how to deal with stress, anxiety, and symptoms of depression. Psychometric parameters were assessed via electronic questionnaires comprising the EPDS, STAI-S and PRAQ-R.

Results:

Results showed a high prevalence of peripartum depression and anxiety among hospitalized, high-risk pregnant women: 38.8% of the study participants at first and 41.0% at second assessment achieved EPDS scores above the cutoff value for a minor/major depression. Anxiety levels as measured with the STAI-S were above cutoff for significantly more participants (66.2% at first and 66.7% at second assessment) than below cutoff. After completing the 1-week electronic course of mindfulness there was a significant reduction in mean state anxiety levels (p < .03). Regarding pregnancy-related anxiety, participants who completed more than 50% of the 1-week course showed lower scores for the PRAQ-R at second assessment (p < .05).

Conclusions:

Peripartum anxiety and depression represent a relevant health issue in hospitalized pregnant patients. eMBIs could have the potential to reduce anxiety levels and pregnancy-related anxiety, and compliance to eMBI seems to be related to lower symptoms of pregnancy-related stress among high-risk patients. eMBIs represent accessible mental health resources at reduced costs and can be adapted for hospitalized patients during pregnancy.