Antenatal group therapy improves worry and depression symptoms.

INTRODUCTION

Antenatal anxiety and depression occur in approximately 20% of pregnant women with potentially deleterious effects to mother and child. While effective in reducing symptoms, some pregnant women are often reluctant to take psychotropic medications. We tested the effectiveness of group therapy to provide worry and depression symptom relief.

METHODS

Women (N=38) in 15-28 weeks of gestation were recruited to antenatal Psychotherapy Groups using either interpersonal or mindfulness based therapy. We collected data at three times, upon intake to and at completion of the group and at four weeks postpartum. Descriptive, Chi-square, and GEE analyses were used to compare depression and worry symptoms with a matched control group of pregnant women (N=68).

LIMITATIONS

Small sample size in both groups required a matched control group with no randomization.

RESULTS

Attending group therapy significantly reduced worry and depression symptoms over pregnancy into the postpartum compared to women receiving no therapy. There was no difference in symptom reduction between different types of groups attended.

DISCUSSION

Engaging pregnant women in group therapy can significantly improve worry and depression symptoms, with lasting effects.