Treatment Of Postnatal Depression Research Articles

# 125 - - Maternal reflective functioning and attachment outcomes of an online s inging intervention for postnatal depression: SHAPER-PNDO, a s ingle-arm clinical trial

Parental reflective functioning (PRF), or mentalization, is critical for offspring development. Postnatal depression (PND) may negatively impact this ability, resulting into impairments in menta liza tion and reduced attachment to the child. The aim of present work is s tudying the effectiveness of 6-weeks online s inging interventions, Melodies for Mums (M4M), in improving PRF and attachment to the child in a group of mothers suffering from PND.37 mothers were recruited. Demographic characteristics were collected at base line. At base line, week 6, and week 32 PND was evaluated with the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS); mentalization was assessed using the Parental Reflective Functioning Questionnaire (PRFQ) focusing on pre-menta lizing (PM) subsca le; maternal attachment to the child eva lua ted with the Maternal Postnatal Attachment Scale (MPAS).Participants experienced s ignifica nt reductions in depression on the EPDS (16.6 ± 3.7 to 11.2 ± 5.3, p<.001, t (36) = 7.56, p <.001), showed a reduction of PM scores on the PRFQ (2.24 ± 0.66 to 1.86 ± 0.71, (t(34)=3.889, p<0.001)), and reported improvements in attachment scores on MPAS (66.89 ± 10.11 to 73.73 ± 7.57, t(33)= -3.735, p<0.001). Overall, there was a s ignificant effect of time across the s tudy, such that a total decline in EPDS (F(4,144) = 24.48, p <.001) and PM scores (F(2,148) = 13.315 (p<0.001), and increase of attachment scores (F(2,66) = 15.785 (p<0.001).Participating in M4M online may help mothers in reduction of depressive symptoms and also improve mentalization and bonding towards their infants.

Psychoeducation as an active ingredient for interventions for perinatal depression and anxiety in youth: a mixed-method systematic literature review and lived experience synthesis.

Psychoeducation is a common element in psychological interventions for youth depression and anxiety, but evidence about its use with youth perinatally is limited. This review aims to understand outcomes and mechanisms of psychoeducation for the indicated prevention and treatment of perinatal depression and anxiety in youth. For this review, we synthesised published quantitative and qualitative evidence. Seven databases (ASSIA, Medline, PubMed, PsycINFO, PsycArticles, Scopus and Web of Science) were searched for studies published before 10 August 2021. We also had consultations with a youth advisory group (N = 12). In total, 20 studies met the inclusion criteria. Seven quantitative studies examined multicomponent interventions that included psychoeducation, and one study evaluated psychoeducation as a standalone intervention for postnatal depression. Multicomponent interventions showed significant effects on postnatal depression in two out of six studies, as well as being effective at reducing prenatal anxiety in one study. Standalone psychoeducation for postnatal depression was also effective in one study. Evidence from 12 qualitative studies, corroborated by commentaries from the youth advisory group, suggested that psychoeducation could increase knowledge about symptoms, generate awareness of relevant services and enhance coping. Psychoeducation may be an important foundational ingredient of interventions for perinatal depression and, potentially, anxiety in adolescents and young adults through stimulating help-seeking and self-care.

Overcoming training bottlenecks: mixed-methods evaluation of digital training for non-specialists in postnatal depression self-help treatment

ABSTRACT Objectives This mixed-methods study evaluated the feasibility, acceptability and preliminary effectiveness of an interactive digital training programme for non-specialist supporters providing a guided self-help intervention for postnatal depression (PND). Methods A total of 49 non-specialist trainees participated. Six digital training modules were flexibly delivered over a 5-week period. Training included a chatroom, moderated by a supervised assistant psychologist. Quantitatively, feasibility was assessed via participation and retention levels; acceptability was examined using course evaluation questionnaires; and effectiveness was measured pre-test-post-test quantitatively using a self-report questionnaire and pre-post using scenario questions. Participant focus groups explored feasibility, acceptability and effectiveness. Results The training was feasible; 41 completed the course and 42 were assessed at follow-up. Quantitative course evaluation and thematic analysis of focus group feedback demonstrated high training acceptability. RANOVAs indicated training significantly improved knowledge and confidence pre- to post-test. There were demonstrable increases in specific skills at post-test as assessed via clinical scenarios. Conclusion This training is a feasible, acceptable and effective way to upskill non-specialists in supporting treatment for PND, however supervised practice is recommended to ensure participants embed knowledge competently into practice. The training offers an effective first step in upskilling non-specialist supporters to support women with PND treatment at scale.

Feasibility, clinical efficacy, and well-being outcomes of an online singing intervention for postnatal depression in the UK: SHAPER-PNDO, a single-arm clinical trial

BackgroundPostnatal depression (PND) affects over 12% of mothers, with numbers rising during COVID-19. Singing groups can support mothers with PND; however, online delivery has never been evaluated. SHAPER-PNDO, a single-arm clinical trial, evaluated the feasibility, clinical efficacy, and well-being outcomes of a 6-week online version of Breathe Melodies for Mums (M4M) singing intervention developed for mothers with PND during COVID-19 lockdowns.MethodsThe primary objective of this study was to assess the feasibility of a group online singing intervention for new mothers with postnatal depression. This was ascertained through recruitment rates, study retention rates, attendance rates to the singing sessions, and study completion rates. The secondary objective of the study was to assess the clinical efficacy and well-being outcomes of the singing intervention. Specifically, we measured change in Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS), State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI), Perceived Stress Scale (PSS), and Office for National Statistics Wellbeing Scale (ONS) scores from baseline to end-of-intervention (week 6); follow-up assessments were completed at weeks 3, 16, and 32. Mothers were eligible if they scored ≥10 on the baseline EPDS.ResultsEighty-seven percent of the 37 recruited mothers completed the study, attending, on average, 5 of the 6 group singing sessions. With regard to secondary outcomes, at end-of-treatment, mothers experienced significant reductions in depression (EPDS, 16.6 ± 3.7 to 11.2 ± 5.3, 95% CI [0.79,1.65]), anxiety (STAI-S, 48.4 ± 27.1 to 41.7 ± 26.8, 95% CI [4.96, 17.65]) and stress (PSS, 29.0 ± 5.7 to 19.7 ± 5.3, 95% CI [1.33, 7.07]); and, furthermore, significant improvements in life satisfaction (ONS, 50.5 ± 23.0 to 72.8 ± 11.7, 95% CI [− 39.86, − 4.64]) and feelings of worthwhileness (ONS, 51.7 ± 30.4 to 78.6 ± 15.1, 95% CI [− 52.79, − 0.85]). Reduction on the EPDS correlated with a reduction on the BDI and the STAI-S and maternal childhood maltreatment was predictive of a smaller treatment response.ConclusionsM4M online was feasible to mothers who partook in the programme. Furthermore, M4M online supports the mental health and well-being of new mothers experiencing PND, especially when barriers to in-person treatment are present.Trial registrationClinicalTrials.gov NCT04857593. Registered 22 April 2021, retrospectively registered;

Exploratory RCT of a group psychological intervention for postnatal depression in British mothers of South Asian origin – ROSHNI-D

BackgroundPostnatal depression (PND) is a global public health problem. There is a high prevalence of PND amongst ethnic minority women and major ethnic inequalities in mental health care in the U.K. Language and cultural barriers pose a significant challenge for access to timely treatment and interventions for British South Asian (BSA) women with PND. MethodsThe study, carried out in Manchester and Lancashire, England, was a two-arm single-blind exploratory randomised controlled trial. BSA women (N = 83) having a baby <12 months were randomised either to the group receiving the culturally adapted Positive Health Programme (PHP) (n = 42) or to the group receiving treatment as usual (TAU) (n = 41). Follow-up assessments were at 3 months (end of intervention) and 6 months after randomisation. ResultsUsing an intention to treat analysis, there was no significant difference between PHP intervention and TAU groups in depression measured using Hamilton Depression Rating Scale both at 3 and 6 months follow up. Using modified intention to treat analysis, women who attended four or more sessions showed significant reduction in depression in the PHP group compared to the TAU group and the greater number of sessions attended was associated with greater reductions in depression scores. LimitationsThe sample was relatively small and the study was conducted in one geographical area in Northwest England; hence, these results may not be generalizable to other regions and populations. ConclusionThe recruitment and trial retention figures highlighted the ability of the research team to engage with BSA women, having implications in planning services for this group. Trial registrationClinicaltrials.govNCT01838889.

Impact of Perinatal Depression on Offspring HPA Axis Functioning

Perinatal depression is associated with HPA axis alterations not just in the mother, but also in the offspring. Factors influencing this relationship are important to understand, in order to break the intergenerational transmission of psychopathology from mother to child. Presented here are preliminary data from two perinatal cohorts, (i) the Psychiatry Research and Motherhood-Depression (PRAM-D) cohort, following offspring of antenatally depressed women to middle childhood, and (ii) the Scaling-Up Health Arts Programmes: Implementation and Effectiveness Research (SHAPER) cohort, an online singing intervention for postnatal depression. Using salivary cortisol samples, we investigate whether (i) alterations in offspring HPA axis reactivity in infancy extend to childhood and (ii) maternal and infant cortisol levels are associated in response to singing. In the PRAM-D cohort, children of antenatally depressed mothers showed a trend towards higher total cortisol output during the cold pressor task compared with controls ([nmol/mL] 128.9(48.8) vs. 101.7(45.3); t(39)=-1.8, p=0.076). There were no case-control differences in child self-reported mental health (p>0.05), however total child cortisol output was positively correlated with child trait anxiety (rs=0.34, p=0.030). Results from the SHAPER cohort are in preparation. In the PRAM-D cohort, antenatal depression was not significantly associated with child cortisol output, but instead, child concurrent trait anxiety was. A more in-depth understanding of the impacts of perinatal depression on offspring HPA axis functioning and mental health is crucial, as it will allow us to develop interventions which break the cycle of intergenerational transmission of psychopathology.

Association Between Maternal Postnatal Depression and Offspring Anxiety and Depression in Adolescence and Young Adulthood: A Meta-Analysis.

Postnatal depression (PND) is common, with an incidence of 10% to 20% in new mothers. Studies have identified an association between maternal PND and adverse childhood effects. Fewer studies have explored the risk of psychiatric disorders in adolescence and adulthood. MEDLINE, PubMed, PsycINFO, Embase, and EmCare were searched. Studies evaluating the association between maternal PND and offspring anxiety or depression in adolescence or adulthood were included. Five prospective cohort studies met the inclusion criteria. The odds ratios were pooled using a random effects model, and heterogeneity and publication bias were assessed. Anxiety: The 4 relevant studies were composed of 273 mothers with PND and 916 controls, followed up for 12 to 23 years. The pooled odds ratio (OR) was 2.19 (1.33-3.61), p = 0.002, with no heterogeneity (I2 = 0.00, p = 0.49). Depression: The 5 studies were composed of 937 mothers with PND and 3099 controls, followed up from 12 to 23 years. The pooled OR was 1.92 (1.08-3.42), p = 0.026, with heterogeneity (I2 = 62.89, p = 0.03). Offspring of mothers with PND are twice as likely to suffer from anxiety and almost twice as likely to suffer from depression than those without exposure. This evidence heightens the importance of detection and treatment of postnatal depression. Furthermore, early assessment and support could be provided to the high-risk group of offspring.

Healthcare Professionals' Perceptions of Factors That Could Inform Adherence Interventions for Postnatal Depression Treatments

Interventions for postnatal depression (PND) have been widely researched, but little is known about techniques to improve poor adherence to treatment and sustained outcomes. To explore healthcare professionals' experience, a semi-structured interview comprising of six experienced healthcare practitioners was conducted. The use of adjunct support, combining multiple interventions, and self-management could be used to improve adherence behaviour. When women can notice the effect of treatment, it builds a positive attitude toward treatment adherence. One barrier to seeking treatment was linked to trust and fear. Easy accessibility is an important factor that could facilitate adherence. This study provides a good basis for exploring professionals' perception of techniques that could facilitate adherence to PND prescribed treatments, informed by an empirically validated theory. The findings from this study could inform the requirements of treatment adherence intervention for women with PND.

Online singing interventions for postnatal depression in times of social isolation: a feasibility study protocol for the SHAPER-PNDO single-arm trial

BackgroundPostnatal depression (PND) affects 13% of new mothers, with numbers rising during the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite this prevalence, many women have difficulty with or hesitancy towards accessing pharmacological and/or psychological interventions. Group-based mother-baby activities, however, have a good uptake, with singing improving maternal mental health and the mother-infant relationship. The recent lockdowns highlight the importance of adapting activities to an online platform that is wide-reaching and accessible.AimsThe SHAPER-PNDO study will primarily analyse the feasibility of a 6-week online singing intervention, Melodies for Mums (M4M), for mothers with PND who are experiencing barriers to treatment. The secondary aim of the SHAPER-PNDO study will be to analyse the clinical efficacy of the 6-week M4M intervention for symptoms of postnatal depression.MethodsA total of 120 mothers and their babies will be recruited for this single-arm study. All dyads will attend 6 weekly online singing sessions, facilitated by Breathe Arts Health Research. Assessments will be conducted on Zoom at baseline and week 6, with follow-ups at weeks 16 and 32, and will contain interviews for demographics, mental health, and social circumstances, and biological samples will be taken for stress markers. Qualitative interviews will be undertaken to understand the experiences of women attending the sessions and the facilitators delivering them. Finally, data will be collected on recruitment, study uptake and attendance of the programme, participant retention, and acceptability of the intervention.DiscussionThe SHAPER-PNDO study will focus on the feasibility, alongside the clinical efficacy, of an online delivery of M4M, available to all mothers with PND. We hope to provide a more accessible, effective treatment option for mothers with PND that can be available both during and outside of the pandemic for mothers who would otherwise struggle to attend in-person sessions, as well as to prepare for a subsequent hybrid RCT.Trial registrationClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT04857593. Registered retrospectively on 22 April 2021. The first participants were recruited on 27 January 2021, and the trial is ongoing.

An intervention for postnatal depression in South Asian women

Recent research found both improvements and deterioration in young children's health while identifying policies with the potential to reduce inequalities and improve life chances. Dave Hancock explains

Study protocol: randomised controlled hybrid type 2 trial evaluating the scale-up of two arts interventions for postnatal depression and Parkinson’s disease

IntroductionResearch on the benefits of ‘arts’ interventions to improve individuals’ physical, social and psychological well-being is growing, but evidence on implementation and scale-up into health and social care systems is...

Multicentre randomised controlled trial of a group psychological intervention for postnatal depression in British mothers of South Asian origin (ROSHNI-2): study protocol

BackgroundIn the UK, postnatal depression is more common in British South Asian women than White Caucasion women. Cognitive–behavioural therapy (CBT) is recommended as a first-line treatment, but there is little evidence for the adaptation of CBT for postnatal depression to ensure its applicability to different ethnic groups.AimsTo evaluate the clinical and cost-effectiveness of a CBT-based positive health programme group intervention in British South Asian women with postnatal depression.MethodWe have designed a multicentre, two-arm, partially nested, randomised controlled trial with 4- and 12-month follow-up, comparing a 12-session group CBT-based intervention (positive health programme) plus treatment as usual with treatment as usual alone, for British South Asian women with postnatal depression. Participants will be recruited from primary care and appropriate community venues in areas of high South Asian density across the UK. It has been estimated that randomising 720 participants (360 into each group) will be sufficient to detect a clinically important difference between a 55% recovery rate in the intervention group and a 40% recovery rate in the treatment-as-usual group. An economic analysis will estimate the cost-effectiveness of the positive health programme. A qualitative process evaluation will explore barriers and enablers to study participation and examine the acceptability and impact of the programme from the perspective of British South Asian women and other key stakeholders.

Treatment of maternal depression in low‐income women: A feasibility study from Kilifi, Kenya

To test the feasibility and acceptability of a group psychosocial intervention called Learning Through Play (LTP) plus Culturally adapted Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CaCBT) for depressed Kenyan mothers with children aged 0-36months. This study was a single-arm mixed methods feasibility study to test an integrated parenting intervention for postnatal depression in a low-income rural area of Fumbini village in Kilifi District of Kenya. Women between the ages of 18 and 45years with children up to 3years were screened for depression using the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9). Those scoring above 10 on PHQ-9 were interviewed using the Revised Clinical Interview Schedule (CIS-R) to confirm the diagnosis of depression. Assessments were carried out at baseline and at the end of the intervention (3months), followed by qualitative interviews with 12 women. Qualitative interviews were analysed using thematic analysis from a socio-constructionist theoretical lens. The LTP Plus was both feasible and acceptable with high satisfaction among the participants. Qualitative results showed that the women perceived the intervention as beneficial in reducing the symptoms of depression, coping with stress and negative emotions. The results also indicated a reduction in scores on PHQ-9, GAD-7 with an increase in perceived social support, health-related quality of life and an improvement in mothers' knowledge about child development at the end of the intervention. This study represents the first feasibility research on integrated parenting intervention in Kenya. The results indicated that culturally adapted LTP plus CaCBT is feasible and acceptable in a low-income setting of Kenya. There is now a need to study the clinical and cost-effectiveness of LTP plus CaCBT in an appropriately powered larger randomised control trial, with a longer follow-up period.

SHAPER-PND and the SHAPER-PDNO protocols: a trial for a community singing intervention for postnatal depression and the COVID-19 pandemic response study

IntroductionThe SHAPER-PND study will analyse the clinical and implementation effectiveness of 10-week in-person singing sessions for postnatal depression in new mothers. An online pilot study, SHAPER-PNDO, was designed to meet the social distancing requirements of the COVID-19 pandemic, while investigating online delivery and COVID-19 anxiety specific questions. This abstract introduces the protocols for both studies, discuss the adaptations made for COVID-19 research and the biological samples collected from mothers in babies.Methods and analysisFor the SHAPER-PND study, 400 mothers and their babies will be recruited. The intervention group will attend 10 weekly singing sessions, facilitated by Breathe Arts Health Research. A control group will attend non-singing sessions for 10 weeks. A package of assessments will be collected from participants for clinical, mechanistic and implementation outcomes. Cortisol, oxytocin and other biological measures will be collected from saliva and hair samples.For SHAPER-PNDO, a total of 120 mothers and their babies will be recruited for the 6 weekly singing sessions intervention. The same package of assessments and saliva samples will be collected as for SHAPER-PND.

The Combination of Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy with Virtual Reality for the Treatment of Postnatal Depression in a Brief Intervention Context: A Single-Case Study Trial

Postnatal depression (PND) is a mood disorder with potentially devastating effects to the individual on many levels. It can affect cognitive functioning, motivation, and self-esteem. The person can socially withdraw from their immediate familial or social circle. It can affect bonding and quality time between the mother and baby. There are many effective therapeutic treatments used for the treatment of PND such as cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) and interpersonal psychotherapy (IPT). This study using a single-case study trial with 15 participants investigates the clinical usefulness of combining CBT with virtual reality (VR). Results show that the combination of CBT with VR is an effective treatment for PND. In addition, VR can enhance awareness, decision-making, and self-appreciation within the individual and can also have real-life applications. This study also shows that the combination of VR and CBT is feasible, while the use of such a technology is well accepted.

Postpartum depression Part 2. Biological treatment: practical aspects &amp; safety issues. Review of the literature

Introduction: Mother with postnatal depression is not able to adequately respond to the needs of her child. Maternal depression poses a serious health &amp; safety risk for mother and child. They both need treatment with rapid onset of action and minimal influence on the infant.&#x0D; Aim: Discussion of professional boards’ recommendations together with RCT results and clinical observations reffering to nursing depressed women with emphasis on practical aspects and future directions.&#x0D; Methods: Discussion on postnatal depression treatment national guidelines and results from meta-analyses and systematic reviews found in Pubmed and Cochrane databases with "postanatal" or "postpartum" or "puerperium" and "depression" keywords. Selection of articles based on practical aspects of management.&#x0D; Results: Despite its widespread use, the safety and efficacy of SSRIs in postpartum mood disorders have not yet been clearly confirmed. Long-term observation of behaviour and development of children after early exposure to SSRIs up to adulthood is necessary to fully assess the risk of antidepressant treatment in nursing mothers.&#x0D; Conclusions: Pharmacotherapy remains the most accessible method of treating depression in the puerperal period, however, knowledge about the safety of antidepressants during lactation is still insufficient. Individualization of treatment depending on the patient's condition, specific needs, availabity of procedures and mental or physical comorbidity is necessary.

The experience of first-time Hong Kong Chinese fatherhood: A qualitative exploratory study.

The father's involvement in childrearing can positively influence health outcomes not only for the man himself but also for his partner and their children. However, the experience of first-time fatherhood is limited in Chinese communities. The aim of this study is to explore men's experience of first-time fatherhood and coping in Hong Kong. An exploratory qualitative design was used. A purposive sample of 44 first-time Chinese fathers who had participated in a couple-based cognitive-behavioral intervention for postnatal depression were recruited for telephone interviews at 1-3 months postpartum. Data were collected by a semistructured interview guide and analyzed using thematic analysis. The process involved in men's transition to first-time fatherhood reveals four major themes: changes in daily life, new paternal roles and responsibilities, availability of resources to enhance adaptation, and coping strategies. The findings have implications for health care professionals and policy-makers in the provision of comprehensive perinatal care and family-friendly policies to aid men's transition to first-time fatherhood in Chinese communities.

Birth, attitudes and placentophagy: a thematic discourse analysis of discussions on UK parenting forums

BackgroundThe post-partum consumption of the placenta by the mother (placentophagy) has been practiced since the 1970s in the global North and is seemingly increasing in popularity. Maternal placentophagy is not known to have been practiced in any other time period or culture, despite being near-ubiquitous in other placental mammals. An in-depth qualitative exploration as to the reasons for the practice, its increasing popularity and how it is narratively incorporated into discourses surrounding “ideal” natural and medical births are given in this paper.Methods1752 posts from 956 users across 85 threads from the parenting forums Mumsnet and Netmums were identified for inclusion. A thematic discourse analysis was performed using NVivo.ResultsThree main themes were identified: women recounted predominantly positive attitudes towards their own experiences of placentophagy, and they were respectful of others’ views and experiences; some had negative views, particularly around the concept of disgust, but again, they were respectful of others’ experiences. By far the most common method of consumption of the placenta was encapsulation.ConclusionsThis paper identifies the motivation for placentophagy to almost universally be for medical benefits, most commonly the prevention or treatment of post-natal depression (PND). Whilst disgust is a common reaction, discussion of risks is rare, and positive experiences outweigh negative ones. The increasing popularity of the practice is ascribed in part to the comparative palatability of encapsulation and the use of the internet to share resources and remove barriers. Parenting forums are important spaces to negotiate normative birth practices, including placentophagy, and act to build communities of women who value personal experience over medical evidence and highly value personal choice and bodily autonomy. Placentophagy is discussed in terms of its relation to natural and medical births with arguments being made using both discourses for and against the practice. This paper argues that placentophagy is practiced as a resistance to medicalisation as an assertion of control by the mother, whilst simultaneously being a medicalised phenomenon itself.

POST-PARTUM DEPRESSION- TREATMENT UPDATE

Background: Postpartum depression is a prevalent and serious mental health issue in India. This affects not only a woman but also the development of her offspring. There is a need to find out various pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatment options available for the treatment post-partum depression.&#x0D; Method: This review was based on methods and results as described in the selected published articles available on PubMed and PsycINFO. We identified articles whose titles contained the following key terms in various combinations of the following: depression, depressive illness, postpartum, postnatal, treatment, prevention, therapy, pharmacotherapy, and antidepressant, the name of each antidepressant drug, hormonal therapy, estrogen, and progesterone.&#x0D; Results: We reviewed treatment of post-partum depression with antidepressants randomized clinical trials as well as open label studies, hormonal treatment, prevention studies randomized clinical trials as well as open label studies, alternative pharmacological treatment including omega-3- fatty acids- both for prevention and treatment. We also reviewed internet based intervention, cognitive behavioral therapy, kangaroo mother care, effectiveness of regular exercise, role of ECT and effect of rTMS in post part depression. When it’s about safety, the psychological interventions support their use in some women, pregnant and lactating women because of devoid of side effects to new born.&#x0D; Conclusion: Diverse pharmacological or psychological interventions options are available for treatment of postnatal depression. The most promising intervention is the focus on intensive and individualized approach.

Psychological Therapy for Postnatal Depression in UK Primary Care Mental Health Services: A Qualitative Investigation Using Framework Analysis

ObjectivesPostnatal depression (PND) can have negative consequences for mother and infant. Current psychological therapies are effective in treating depression but improvements in mother-infant outcomes have not yet been established. We aimed to capture mothers’ experiences of therapy for PND with a focus on parenting-related outcomes. We also sought their views on including parenting support within interventions.MethodsFourteen mothers who received psychological therapy in the United Kingdom’s National Health Service (NHS) participated in semi-structured interviews. Data were audio-recorded, transcribed, coded and analysed using Framework Analysis.ResultsThree main themes were identified: ‘The experience of therapy’, ‘Therapy outcomes’ and ‘Views about parenting interventions for postnatal depression’. The main themes were underpinned by other themes. Overall the findings revealed that mothers perceived therapy as helpful in improving mood, confidence as a parent and relationship with their infant. Mothers valued the process of normalising their experiences within group therapy and by their therapists because it reduced any shame and stigma associated with PND. Mothers thought parenting support within therapy would be acceptable if delivered collaboratively.ConclusionsPrimary care-based psychological therapy for PND was perceived as helpful and acceptable. It clearly met some of the mothers’ goals, especially if their beliefs about being a ‘bad mother’ was challenged and modified. Barriers to engagement, such as childcare issues and therapist’s knowledge about perinatal mental health, would also need to be overcome. Finally, mother-infant interventions should be further explored as an adjunct treatment option.