Effect of prenatal online interventions on postpartum depressive symptoms and well-being: a systematic review and...

Depression during pregnancy and postpartum can severely impact psychological and physical well-being, with significant consequences for the child and family. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of online interventions during pregnancy in reducing postpartum depressive symptoms and enhancing well-being.

Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) published in English involving pregnant women over 18 years old who participated in online interventions, with or without the support of a health worker, were included. Studies were required to use validated measures for depression and well-being assessed during pregnancy and postpartum. Exclusion criteria comprised literature reviews, meta-analyses, theses, self-help groups and assessment of symptomatology during the period concurrent with maternity blues. A search was conducted using PubMed and EBSCOhost databases, concluding on July 29, 2024. The risk of bias was assessed using RoB 2.

Eighteen studies with a total of 9,565 participants met the inclusion criteria. Of these, 38.8% involved clinical populations. Variability was noted in theoretical models, gestational age, professional involvement, and intervention activities. The overall effect size was significant (Cohen's d = 0.37; 95% CI: 0.08 to 0.66; p = 0.0114) with greater efficacy observed in studies using treatment as usual (TAU) as a control and those incorporating relaxation and physical activity.

Limitations include the absence of standardized protocols and uncertainties regarding long-term efficacy. Although the findings suggest potential effectiveness of online interventions in reducing depressive symptoms, further research is required to address gaps in the existing evidence.

The study received no funding and was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42023420999).