Internet-Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Preventing Postpartum Depressive Symptoms Among Pregnant Individuals...

Area of Science:

• Reproductive Psychiatry
• Digital Mental Health
• Clinical Psychology

Background:

• Pregnancy depression is a significant risk factor for postpartum depression (PPD).
• Early intervention for antenatal depressive symptoms is crucial for PPD prevention.
• Effectiveness of internet-based cognitive behavioral therapy (ICBT) for PPD prevention in high-risk women is understudied.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the short- and long-term efficacy of ICBT in preventing PPD.
• To assess ICBT's impact on maternal mental health and well-being during pregnancy and postpartum.
• To explore ICBT's effects in subgroups based on antenatal depression severity.

Main Methods:

• Randomized controlled trial (RCT) with 300 pregnant women screened for antenatal depression.
• Intervention group received weekly online ICBT modules; control group received no treatment.
• Primary outcome: depressive symptoms at 6 weeks postpartum; secondary outcomes: long-term maternal mental health, co-parenting, and infant development.

Main Results:

• No significant difference in PPD rates between ICBT and control groups at 6 weeks or long-term.
• Subgroup analysis: women with mild-moderate antenatal depressive symptoms (EPDS 10-12) showed reduced PPD risk with ICBT (OR 0.534, P=.02).
• This subgroup also reported improved co-parenting relationships (P=.02).

Conclusions:

• ICBT did not demonstrate efficacy in preventing PPD overall.
• ICBT may benefit pregnant women with mild to moderate antenatal depressive symptoms.
• Further research is needed to adapt ICBT for severe antenatal depression.