Efficacy of digital MBCT-PD in preventing postpartum depression and enhancing work motivation: A study protocol

Q2 Medicine Mental Health and Prevention Pub Date : 2025-01-07 DOI:10.1016/j.mhp.2025.200392

Neda Ansaari , Sreenath Kuruveettissery , Aruna Muralidhar

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Abstract

Background

Postpartum depression (PPD) is a significant challenge for women transitioning back to work. While preventive measures are essential, the effectiveness of Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) in this context remains underexplored. This study will assess the efficacy of a digital MBCT program (MBCT-PD) in preventing PPD, enhancing well-being, and motivating work resumption after childbirth.

Methods

A randomized controlled trial (RCT) with repeated measures will evaluate MBCT-PD, a digitally delivered intervention designed to promote mindfulness and emotional resilience. Eighty consenting pregnant women aged 18+, between 16 and 32 weeks gestation, residing in urban India will be recruited and randomized to either the MBCT-PD group or an enhanced treatment-as-usual (TAU) control group, which includes additional prenatal wellness resources. The intervention will span eight weeks, with assessments at baseline, post-intervention (T1), and six weeks postpartum (T2).

Primary outcomes are depression (Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale), well-being (Pregnancy Experience Scale-Brief), and work motivation (Multidimensional Work Motivation Scale). Secondary outcome is mindfulness level (Three Facet Mindfulness Questionnaire-Short Form). Descriptive statistics, repeated measures ANOVA, and regression analyses will determine the effect of MBCT-PD on these outcomes.

Expected Results

We anticipate that the MBCT-PD group will show reduced PPD symptoms, improved well-being, and greater motivation to resume work than the control group, consistent with previous findings on mindfulness-based interventions.

Conclusion

The findings from this study are expected to support the efficacy of MBCT-PD as a cost-effective, scalable intervention for enhancing postpartum mental health and work reintegration, with potential applications in maternal mental health practices and policies worldwide.