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Alleviating premenstrual symptoms with smartphone-based heart rate variability biofeedback training: a pilot study
Berenike Lisa Blaser1, Mathias Weymar1,2, Julia Wendt1
1Department of Biological Psychology and Affective Science, Faculty of Human Sciences, University of Potsdam, Potsdam, Germany.
Frontiers in Digital Health
|July 1, 2024
Summary
Smartphone biofeedback improved depressive and premenstrual symptoms. This accessible intervention shows promise for mental well-being, though further research is needed to confirm effects on heart rate variability.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Neuroscience
- Digital Health
Background:
- Heart rate variability biofeedback (HRVB) effectively treats depressive symptoms but faces barriers like cost and professional availability.
- Smartphone-based HRVB offers a low-cost, accessible alternative, yet requires more research.
- Premenstrual symptoms are prevalent, necessitating accessible, low-side-effect interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of smartphone-based HRVB for depressive and premenstrual symptoms.
- To assess the impact on anxiety/stress and attentional control.
- To explore a novel, accessible intervention for common health concerns.
Main Methods:
- A 4-week waitlist-control pilot study involving 27 participants.
- Intervention: Photoplethysmography smartphone-based HRVB.
- Assessments: vmHRV, ANT-R, BDI-II, DASS, PAF questionnaires; analyzed with linear mixed models.
Main Results:
- Significant improvements observed in premenstrual, depressive, and anxiety/stress symptoms.
- Enhanced executive functioning (ANT-R Executive Functioning Score) was noted.
- No significant changes in vagally mediated heart rate variability (vmHRV) or ANT-R Orienting Score.
Conclusions:
- Smartphone-based HRVB shows potential for alleviating depressive and premenstrual symptoms.
- The intervention may improve executive functioning.
- Larger studies are required to validate these findings and establish clinical recommendations.
