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LoVE4MUM Mobile App to Prevent Postpartum Depression: Protocol for a Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial
Siti Sabrina Kamarudin1,2, Idayu Badilla Idris2, Shalisah Sharip3
1Clinical Research Center Hospital Shah Alam, Institute for Clinical Research, National Institute for Health, Ministry of Health Malaysia, Shah Alam, Malaysia.
JMIR Research Protocols
|January 27, 2025
Summary
This pilot study evaluates the LoVE4MUM mobile app for preventing postpartum depression. Findings will inform the development of accessible mHealth interventions for maternal mental health.
Area of Science:
- Digital health interventions
- Maternal mental health
- Psychiatry
Background:
- Postpartum depression (PPD) significantly impacts maternal and infant well-being.
- Barriers to traditional support highlight the need for accessible interventions.
- Mobile health (mHealth) shows promise for early detection and management of maternal mental health issues.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effectiveness of the Leveraging on Virtual Engagement for Maternal Understanding & Mood-enhancement (LoVE4MUM) mobile app in preventing postpartum depression.
- To assess the app's potential as a self-guided intervention based on cognitive behavioral therapy and psychoeducation principles.
Main Methods:
- A single-blinded, pilot randomized controlled trial with 64 mothers.
- Participants were randomized 1:1 to receive standard postpartum care or standard care plus the LoVE4MUM app.
- Primary outcome: PPD prevention; Secondary outcomes: mental health literacy and negative automatic thoughts.
Main Results:
- Recruitment completed with 72 participants (36 per group) by January 1, 2025.
- Final results are anticipated by March 2025.
- Publication of findings is expected by the end of 2025.
Conclusions:
- This pilot RCT will provide preliminary evidence on mHealth tools for improving maternal mental health.
- The study aims to assess the LoVE4MUM app's potential in reducing PPD symptoms.
- Findings are expected to guide the development of scalable and accessible interventions for mothers.
