Feasibility of a Perinatal Mindfulness-Based Intervention Delivered Remotely Due to COVID-19

Abstract

Mind–body interventions have shown promise for improving prenatal mental health. The purpose of this study was to investigate the feasibility of a prenatal mind-body intervention delivered remotely due to COVID-19 and preliminary efficacy with respect to mental health outcomes. This study used a simultaneous mixed methods approach (n = 27). Mixed methods data were collected to evaluate the feasibility and preliminary efficacy of the remotely delivered program (I.e., acceptability, practicality, demand, sustainability). Findings suggests that remote delivery of the Mindful Moms-to-Be program is acceptable. Half of the sample (45%) reported that they felt remote participation was more acceptable compared to in-person programming and approximately 1/3 reported that either format would be acceptable. Additionally, 36% of participants reported that remote participation did not impact their ability to participate and 46% reported that it increased their ability to participate. A majority (63%) of participants reported feeling moderately or extremely likely to sustain the habits learned in the program after birth. Finally, after participating in the program, participants reported statistically significant increases in resilience (t (26) = -3.89, p<.01) and statistically significant decreases in stress (t (26) = 3.45, p<.01), depression (t (26) = 4.04), and anxiety (t (26) = 4.23, p<.01). Remotely delivered mind-body interventions may be feasible for pregnant individuals, increase demand, and potentially lead to sustainable changes in the postpartum period. Participation in Mindful Moms-to-Be may significantly mitigate negative mental health outcomes, including anxiety, during pregnancy.