The protective value of trait mindfulness for mothers' anxiety during the perinatal period.
Acta psychologica October 1, 2023 Anna F Leyland, Myrthe G B M Boekhorst, Julia E Offermans et al. 5 citations
Trait mindfulness, particularly the non-judging facet, protects against anxiety and pregnancy-specific distress during pregnancy and after childbirth. In a longitudinal study of pregnant women assessed at 12, 22, and 32 weeks gestation and 6 weeks postpartum, mindfulness facets measured at 22 weeks were negatively linked to general anxiety at all later time points and to pregnancy-specific distress at 22 and 32 weeks. Non-judging showed the largest protective effect, surpassing partner involvement and other known risk factors. Mindfulness training emphasizing attitudinal aspects may benefit pregnant women at risk for high anxiety.