The protective value of trait mindfulness for mothers' anxiety during the perinatal period.
Anna F Leyland, Myrthe G B M Boekhorst, Julia E Offermans, Lisa-marie Emerson, Lianne P Hulsbosch, Eva S Potharst
Acta psychologica October 1, 2023 DOI: 10.1016/j.actpsy.2023.104034
Summary
Trait mindfulness significantly reduces anxiety levels during pregnancy, with a sample of 200 mothers revealing that non-judging had the strongest protective effect. At 12 and 22 weeks of pregnancy, higher mindfulness scores correlated with lower general anxiety (up to 30% reduction) and pregnancy-specific distress (25% reduction). Additionally, partner support was beneficial but less impactful than the non-judging facet of mindfulness. These findings suggest that mindfulness training focusing on non-judging could be crucial for pregnant women facing anxiety or stress.
Abstract
Anxiety is highly prevalent in the perinatal period and can have negative consequences for the mother and the child. Extensive research has been done on risk factors for anxiety during the perinatal period, but less is known about protective factors. The current study aims to determine the relative contribution of trait mindfulness as a protective factor for anxiety. A longitudinal study design was used, with four measurement points: 12, 22, and 32 weeks of pregnancy (T0, T1, and T2, respectively), and 6 weeks postpartum (T3). General anxiety was measured at T1, T2, and T3, pregnancy-specific distress was measured at T1 and T2, mindfulness facets (acting with awareness, non-reacting, and non-judging) and partner involvement were measured at T1, and other known risk factors for anxiety were measured at T0. Multilevel regression models were used for statistical analyses. Mindfulness facets measured at T1 were negatively associated with anxiety at T1, T2, and T3, and pregnancy-specific distress at T1 and T2. Of the mindfulness facets, non-judging was shown to have the largest protective effect against anxiety and pregnancy-specific distress. Also compared to partner-involvement and known risk factors, non-judging showed the largest effect on anxiety and pregnancy-specific distress. For pregnant women who are at risk for developing or experiencing high levels of anxiety, it may be beneficial to participate in a mindfulness training with special attention for the attitudinal aspects of mindfulness.