Effects of Mindfulness-Based Practices in the Perinatal and Postpartum Periods on Women's Health: A Systematic Review
Psikiyatride Güncel Yaklaşımlar November 2, 2024 Melike Dişsiz, Duygu Özer
A systematic review of 26 randomized controlled trials found that mindfulness-based practices improve perinatal and postpartum women's mental health by reducing fear of childbirth, depression, anxiety, and stress, while enhancing psychological well-being, self-efficacy, self-compassion, and mindfulness. The most common intervention was online self-help programs. Physical health benefits included higher rates of normal vaginal births, increased maternal-fetal attachment, lessened birth pain, reduced need for medication or anesthesia, and support for healthy lifestyle behaviors. These findings suggest mindfulness interventions positively influence both maternal and infant mental health.