Qualitative results from a randomized pilot study of eHealth Mindful Movement and Breathing to improve gynecologic cancer surgery outcomes.

Abstract

Purpose: Improved management of pain and co-morbid symptoms (sleep disturbances, psychological distress) among women undergoing surgery for suspected gynecologic malignancies may reach a population vulnerable to chronic pain.

Participants: Women undergoing surgery for a suspected gynecologic malignancy.

Method: We conducted a pilot randomized controlled trial of eHealth Mindful Movement and Breathing (eMMB) compared to an empathic attention control (AC). Semi-structured interviews were conducted by telephone (n = 23), recorded, transcribed, coded, and analyzed using thematic analysis.

Findings: Participants reported overall high acceptability such that all would recommend the study to others. Positive impacts of practicing eMMB included that it relieved tension, facilitated falling asleep, and decreased pain. Participants also reported high adherence to self-directed eMMB and AC writing practices and described facilitators and barriers to practicing.

Conclusions: This qualitative feedback will inform future research to assess the efficacy of eMMB for reducing pain and use of remotely-delivered interventions more broadly.

Clinical trial registration number: NCT03681405.