Feasibility of Modified Mindfulness Training Program on Antenatal Depression and Perceived Stress Among Expected Mothers with Male Child Preference

Background and Objectives: Antenatal depression and perceived stress are prevalent mental health challenges in pregnant women, associated with male-child preference. The study aimed to assess the feasibility of a modified mindfulness training program on antenatal depression and perceived stress levels among expected mothers with male child preference at a public sector tertiary care hospital in Karachi, Pakistan. Materials and Methods: The present feasibility trial was conducted among expected mothers having antenatal depression and perceived stress with a male child's preference by using the ADAPT-ITT framework. Need assessment and experiences of the new target population were carried out through an exploratory, descriptive qualitative study. In-depth interviews were conducted using a semi-structured interview guide and analysed using a thematic analysis process. A repeated measures MANOVA was employed to investigate the effect of time on antenatal depression and perceived stress scores in the feasibility of the intervention. Results: Five major themes emerged from qualitative data. Significant influence of time was established on antenatal depression scores and a perceived score of F (2, 326) = 21.244, p < .001 and F (2, 326) = 310.748, p < 0.001 respectively. Antenatal depression scores significantly decreased from T1 to T2, mean difference = 4.00, p < .001, and slightly significant decline from T2 to T3, mean difference = 1.167, p = 0.001. Perceived stress scores significantly reduced from T1 to T2, mean difference = 10.214, p < .001, and a minor but significant decline from T2 to T3, mean difference = 0.333, p = 0.043. Conclusion: The study concluded the modified mindful training program is a culturally suitable, contextually relevant intervention in Pakistan's context and it significantly reduced antenatal depression and perceived stress in expected mothers.