The feasibility and acceptability of a single-session Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) intervention to support women self-reporting fear of childbirth in a first pregnancy

Abstract

Objective

To assess the feasibility and acceptability of a single-session Acceptance and Commitment Therapy intervention to help women manage fear of childbirth during a first pregnancy.

Design

A mixed-methods approach including qualitative feedback and pre/post-intervention self-report measures. Pregnant women (14-37 weeks gestation) were recruited via the UK National Health Service and attended a single-session (<3 hours) Acceptance and Commitment Therapy intervention alongside routine antenatal care. Data were analysed using content and statistical analyses.

Main outcome measures

Fear of childbirth, anxiety and wellbeing were the main outcome measures. Secondary to these, intolerance of uncertainty and valued life domains (e.g. relationships, recreation) as hypothesised mechanisms of change, were also assessed.

Results

33 expressions of interest were received, 21 women signed up, 15 participated, and 11 completed follow-up measures (participation rate: 33%). Findings demonstrated clinical and statistical reductions in fear of childbirth and anxiety alongside positive feedback on the intervention. Intolerance of uncertainty and wellbeing were low at baseline and remained unchanged.

Conclusion

A single-session Acceptance and Commitment Therapy intervention to manage fear of childbirth is potentially feasible and acceptable. A pilot randomised controlled trial is warranted. Further research should explore efficacy and how Acceptance and Commitment Therapy may reduce perinatal distress.

Keywords:

• Pregnancy
• fear of childbirth
• intolerance of uncertainty
• psychological intervention

Acknowledgments

Thank you to all the women who participated and the midwives who facilitated this work.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.

Reporting checklists

Not Applicable.

Data availability statement

The data that support the findings of this study are available from the primary supervisor (PS), upon reasonable request, under University of Liverpool data management arrangements.

Notes

1 A forum for maternity service users, providers, and commissioners to collaboratively design and input into maternity services, so they meet the needs of local women and families in the catchment area.

Additional information

Funding

This work was supported by the Doctorate of Clinical Psychology Training at the University of Liverpool (UoL001437).