The efficacy of psychological interventions on well-being during the perinatal period: A systematic review

Abstract

Although research has already shown the importance of promoting well-being during pregnancy and after birth, previous meta-analyses on the effectiveness of psychological interventions do not include wellbeing as a primary outcome measure, focusing instead on assessing the effectiveness in reducing symptoms. This study aimed at conducting a systematic review of the effects of psychological interventions on well-being during the perinatal period. A search was conducted in Psycinfo, PubMed, Web of Science (WOS) and Scopus for articles published from 2014 to 2024. A review of 16 randomized clinical trials revealed that most interventions were effective in both improving well-being and reducing clinical symptoms. Face-to-face, therapist-led, and group-based approaches showed better adherence. Positive changes in well-being were maintained over time, although the postpartum transition may have influenced the maintenance of results. This study highlights the importance of including well-being measures in clinical trials during the perinatal period and advocates for a shift toward promoting well-being alongside symptom management.