Psychosocial Occupational Therapy Interventions for High-Risk Pregnancies: A Systematic Review.

Area of Science:

• Occupational therapy
• Psychosocial interventions
• Maternal mental health

Background:

• High-risk pregnancies pose significant psychological challenges.
• Psychosocial interventions can potentially improve mental health and quality of life for these women.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness of occupational therapy-based psychosocial interventions.
• To assess impacts on anxiety, depression, stress, and quality of life in high-risk pregnancies.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review following Cochrane and PRISMA guidelines.
• Included studies on women with high-risk pregnancies and occupational therapy psychosocial interventions.
• Narrative synthesis of data from 34 studies.

Main Results:

• Cognitive-based and counseling-based interventions demonstrated moderate to strong effectiveness in reducing anxiety, depression, and stress.
• Emotion-based approaches showed low to moderate effectiveness.
• Sensory-based interventions were largely ineffective; integrated approaches yielded mixed results.

Conclusions:

• Psychosocial interventions should be integrated into occupational therapy for high-risk pregnancies.
• Findings support occupational therapists in enhancing mental health and occupational engagement.
• Results inform future practice and education for supporting maternal well-being.