Mindfulness Training for Postpartum Depression
(MORPHE Trial)
Trial Summary
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications.
What data supports the effectiveness of the treatment Digital Mindfulness Training, Mindfulness-Based Intervention, Expectful for postpartum depression?
Research shows that mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) during pregnancy can reduce the severity of postpartum depression symptoms in the first three months after childbirth. These interventions have been effective in women with a low risk of developing postpartum depression, suggesting potential benefits for broader use.12345
Is mindfulness training safe for postpartum depression?
How is Digital Mindfulness Training different from other treatments for postpartum depression?
Digital Mindfulness Training is unique because it uses a smartphone-based approach to deliver mindfulness exercises, which can be more accessible and convenient for new mothers compared to traditional in-person therapy sessions. This treatment focuses on improving emotion regulation and cognitive control, which are key mechanisms in reducing postpartum depression symptoms.24789
What is the purpose of this trial?
Dispositional optimism (the general assumption that more good things than bad will occur across various life domains) has been tied to improved somatic and mental health outcomes. Dispositional optimism is malleable, although prior interventions have been time and resource intensive and thus are not well-tailored to the peripartum period. The purpose of this pilot study is to evaluate the feasibility and acceptability of a pregnancy-oriented mindfulness phone application (Expectful) versus standard care among first-time mothers with low dispositional optimism in early pregnancy. Other aims include evaluating the impact of Expectful use on dispositional optimism, adverse pregnancy outcomes (cesarean delivery, hypertensive disorders of pregnancy, and gestational diabetes) and postpartum post-traumatic stress symptoms.
Eligibility Criteria
This trial is for first-time pregnant mothers with low optimism early in pregnancy (less than 20 weeks), who speak English, can consent, and have a smartphone. They must not have had a prior delivery at or beyond 20 weeks gestation.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants in the mindfulness training arm complete 8 weeks of daily mindfulness training exercises using Expectful
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment, including postpartum assessments
Treatment Details
Interventions
- Digital Mindfulness Training
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Nina Ayala
Lead Sponsor
The Miriam Hospital
Collaborator