Randomised controlled pilot trial of mindfulness training for stress reduction during pregnancy

Abstract

This randomised controlled pilot trial tested a six-week mindfulness-based intervention in a sample of pregnant women experiencing high levels of perceived stress and pregnancy anxiety. Forty-seven women enrolled between 10 and 25 weeks gestation were randomly assigned to either a series of weekly Mindful Awareness Practices classes (n = 24) with home practice or to a reading control condition (n = 23). Hierarchical linear models of between-group differences in change over time demonstrated that participants in the mindfulness intervention experienced larger decreases from pre-to post-intervention in pregnancy-specific anxiety and pregnancy-related anxiety (PRA) than participants in the reading control condition. However, these effects were not sustained through follow-up at six weeks post-intervention. Participants in both groups experienced increased mindfulness, as well as decreased perceived stress and state anxiety over the course of the intervention and follow-up periods. This study is one of the first randomised controlled pilot trials of a mindfulness meditation intervention during pregnancy and provides some evidence that mindfulness training during pregnancy may effectively reduce PRA and worry. We discuss some of the dilemmas in pursuing this translational strategy and offer suggestions for researchers interested in conducting mind-body interventions during pregnancy.

Keywords:

• pregnancy
• meditation
• mindfulness
• prenatal stress
• pregnancy anxiety

Acknowledgements

This research was supported by funds from the UCLA Academic Senate and the UCLA Center for the Study of Women. Christine M. Guardino was supported by National Institute of Mental Health Training Grant #15750. Thank you to the Dunkel Schetter and Stanton research labs for constructive comments on the research design and manuscript.

Notes

1. Fees for enrollment in the MAPS classes were reduced through arrangement with the UCLA Mindful Awareness Research Center and were paid directly from study funds. Participants did not pay any fees for attending the classes.