Feasibility of incorporating mindfulness based mental health promotion to the pregnancy care program in Sri Lanka: a pilot study [version 2; peer review: 2 approved]

Background: Though widely discussed, mindfulness-based interventions (MBI) to improve maternal mental health is limited by lack of studies with system incorporation. We evaluate the feasibility of incorporating a MBI program into routine antenatal care (ANC) in Sri Lanka. Methods: MBI included learn...

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Bibliographic Details
Main Authors: Thilini Agampodi, Subhashini Katumuluwa, Thulani Pattiyakumbura, Nilupulee Rankaduwa, Thushari Dissanayaka, Suneth Agampodi
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: F1000 Research Ltd 2019-01-01
Series:F1000Research
Online Access:https://f1000research.com/articles/7-1850/v2
Description
Summary:Background: Though widely discussed, mindfulness-based interventions (MBI) to improve maternal mental health is limited by lack of studies with system incorporation. We evaluate the feasibility of incorporating a MBI program into routine antenatal care (ANC) in Sri Lanka. Methods: MBI included learning mindfulness concepts, practicing mindfulness sitting/reclining meditation, performing mindful movements and practicing mindfulness in daily life. Feedback from the participants were obtained through an anonymous, self-administered, semi-structured questionnaire to determine the program’s cultural appropriateness, usefulness, and feasibility. Results: Participants reported that the training reduced the stress of their daily life, brought a sense of calmness to their mind and body, and improved their anger management. Participants felt strongly that this training would be very useful and a shortened version be included in the national ANC program. Conclusions: This pilot study suggests that an interventional study to evaluate system incorporation of a MBI to improve maternal mental health is feasible.
ISSN:2046-1402