Women’s experiences of psychological treatment and psychosocial interventions for postpartum depression: a qualitative systematic review and meta-synthesis Original paper

What was reviewed?

This review focuses on the experiences of women who had psychological treatment and psychosocial interventions for postpartum depression (PPD). It examines qualitative studies that explored how women perceive and experience different treatments, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and supportive home visits. The review aims to synthesize these findings to better understand the elements of psychological treatments that are beneficial for postpartum women, and to identify factors that may enhance the effectiveness of such interventions.

Who was reviewed?

The review considered studies involving postpartum women who had received psychological treatment for depression within the first year after childbirth. A total of eight studies were used in the meta-synthesis, involving 255 women from the UK, Australia, and Canada. The women in these studies had been diagnosed with PPD and received interventions such as CBT, listening visits, or other forms of psychological counseling. These studies explored the women’s personal experiences with these treatments, including their satisfaction, the therapeutic relationships they built with health professionals, and their expectations of care.

What were the most important findings?

The review identified two primary themes that emerged from the studies: “Circumstances and Expectations” and “Experiences of Treatment.” Women expressed a desire for flexible, individualized treatment that accommodated practical concerns such as childcare and transportation. Many participants highlighted the importance of social support, including help from family members, as a key factor in their ability to engage with treatment. A significant finding was that women preferred psychological treatments where they could choose the format and modality, such as one-on-one sessions or group therapy, and they valued treatments that allowed for emotional expression without judgment.

In terms of treatment outcomes, women reported improvements in their emotional well-being and mother-infant relationships after receiving psychological treatments. Most women found treatments like CBT and supportive home visits to help reduce depressive symptoms, improve confidence, and enhancing their ability to bond with their infants. However, some women expressed dissatisfaction with the number of sessions or the rigidity of treatment schedules, indicating that a more personalized approach could improve engagement and outcomes. Moreover, the relationship with the health professional played a crucial role in the treatment’s success. Women emphasized the importance of a supportive, non-judgmental, and empathetic therapist, which helped them feel comfortable discussing their emotions and challenges.

What are the greatest implications of this review?

The findings suggest several implications for improving PPD treatments. First, the review highlights the importance of tailoring interventions to the individual needs and circumstances of women, including their preferences for treatment formats and the flexibility of scheduling. Healthcare providers should prioritize establishing a strong therapeutic relationship based on trust and empathy to improve treatment engagement. Additionally, the review underscores the need for comprehensive support systems that extend beyond clinical settings, including practical and social support, which can significantly enhance treatment outcomes. Lastly, the review calls for further research on the efficacy of different psychological treatments, particularly those that combine therapeutic approaches with support for the mother-infant relationship.