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CONFERENCE PROCEEDING
Effects of mindfulness-based interventions on perinatal mental health: A scoping review
1
University of Human Environments, Graduate School of Nursing, Obu, Japan
Eur J Midwifery 2026;10(Supplement 1):A671
ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND:
The perinatal period poses significant psychological challenges that increase the risk of maternal mental health issues such as postpartum depression. As maternal suicide rates now outnumber obstetric deaths, preventive mental health strategies are crucial. Mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) are gaining attention for their potential to enhance emotional regulation and well-being during pregnancy and postpartum.
OBJECTIVES:
This scoping review explores the effectiveness of MBIs on maternal mental health, particularly their impact on depression and anxiety during the perinatal period.
METHODS:
A literature search was conducted using the PubMed, CINAHL, and Google Scholar databases to identify articles published between 2000 and 2020. Original articles in English addressing mindfulness and postpartum depression were selected for inclusion. After removing duplicates, review articles, and studies focused solely on physical illness, 21 studies were selected for final analysis.
RESULTS:
The most common interventions were Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) and the Mindfulness-Based Childbirth and Parenting Program (MBCP). Programs ranged from 2 to 12 weeks and included practices such as mindful breathing, body scanning, yoga, and partner-based exercises. MBIs were effective in reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety, enhancing emotional regulation, and promoting a positive attitude toward breastfeeding and parenting. Some studies also noted improved partner relationships and neurobiological changes linked to emotional control. Although benefits for mother–infant attachment were inconclusive, sustained mindfulness practice was identified as key to long-term effects.
CONCLUSIONS:
MBIs are promising, accessible strategies for supporting perinatal mental health. They demonstrate effectiveness even in short durations and offer benefits to partners and children as well as to mothers. Further research is needed to optimize intervention designs and explore long-term impacts on family well-being.
KEY MESSAGE:
The results suggest an important strategy through which perinatal women can empower themselves. Poster session 2 (Group A)
The perinatal period poses significant psychological challenges that increase the risk of maternal mental health issues such as postpartum depression. As maternal suicide rates now outnumber obstetric deaths, preventive mental health strategies are crucial. Mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) are gaining attention for their potential to enhance emotional regulation and well-being during pregnancy and postpartum.
OBJECTIVES:
This scoping review explores the effectiveness of MBIs on maternal mental health, particularly their impact on depression and anxiety during the perinatal period.
METHODS:
A literature search was conducted using the PubMed, CINAHL, and Google Scholar databases to identify articles published between 2000 and 2020. Original articles in English addressing mindfulness and postpartum depression were selected for inclusion. After removing duplicates, review articles, and studies focused solely on physical illness, 21 studies were selected for final analysis.
RESULTS:
The most common interventions were Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) and the Mindfulness-Based Childbirth and Parenting Program (MBCP). Programs ranged from 2 to 12 weeks and included practices such as mindful breathing, body scanning, yoga, and partner-based exercises. MBIs were effective in reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety, enhancing emotional regulation, and promoting a positive attitude toward breastfeeding and parenting. Some studies also noted improved partner relationships and neurobiological changes linked to emotional control. Although benefits for mother–infant attachment were inconclusive, sustained mindfulness practice was identified as key to long-term effects.
CONCLUSIONS:
MBIs are promising, accessible strategies for supporting perinatal mental health. They demonstrate effectiveness even in short durations and offer benefits to partners and children as well as to mothers. Further research is needed to optimize intervention designs and explore long-term impacts on family well-being.
KEY MESSAGE:
The results suggest an important strategy through which perinatal women can empower themselves. Poster session 2 (Group A)
| eISSN: | 2585-2906 |
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