Effects of Mindfulness-Based Couple-Centered Intervention for Parents with Fetal Abnormalities Requiring Pregnancy Termination: A Randomized Controlled Trial in China
摘要
Termination of pregnancy for fetal abnormalities (TOPFA) is associated with considerable psychological distress, particularly anxiety and depression. However, evidence on mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) for parents undergoing TOPFA remains limited, especially for dyadic approaches. This study investigated the effects of a mindfulness-based couple-centered intervention (MBCI) on mindfulness, anxiety, and depression in this population.
MethodThis study was a randomized, controlled, parallel-group clinical trial, 120 parents who underwent TOPFA were randomly allocated to either the intervention group (n = 60) or the control group (n = 60). A total of 97 participants (age range: 24–49 years; 60% university-educated) completed the Generalized Anxiety Disorder Scale, the Patient Health Questionnaire, and the Mindfulness Attention Awareness Scale at baseline (T1) and post-intervention (T2).
ResultsCompared with the control group, the intervention group demonstrated significantly elevated mindfulness (t = -2.07, p = 0.04) and reduced anxiety (Z = -3.18, p < 0.01) /depression (Z = -2.11, p = 0.04). In contrast, no significant pre-post changes were observed in the control group across any measures. Despite a non-significant increase in the intervention group's mindfulness levels from pre-test to post-test (Z = -1.57, p = 0.12), participants had significant reductions in anxiety (Z = -3.07, p < 0.01) and depression (Z = -2.85, p < 0.01).
ConclusionsThe findings of this study suggest that MBCI may improve mindfulness and reduce anxiety and depression among parents experiencing TOPFA. Larger studies with longer follow-up are needed to further evaluate its long-term effects.