Technology-Based Approaches for Supporting Perinatal Mental Health

Area of Science:

• Reproductive Psychiatry
• Digital Health
• Mental Health Technology

Background:

• Perinatal mood and anxiety disorders (PMADs) affect many mothers.
• Current PMAD care faces challenges in accessibility and patient acceptance.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review technological advancements for addressing PMADs.
• To assess available technologies, their applications, and supporting evidence for PMADs.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of technologies applicable to PMADs.
• Analysis of evidence for technology use in perinatal mental health.

Main Results:

• Various technologies show promise for PMAD intervention, prevention, and care augmentation.
• Technologies include wearables, e-consultation, VR/AR, internet-based CBT, and machine learning analytics.
• Evidence for PMADs is limited but positive, though less robust than in general mental health.

Conclusions:

• Technology can overcome barriers of accessibility, affordability, and acceptance in PMAD care.
• Increased technology use can enhance communication, data collection, and patient experience for PMADs.