The Development and Implementation of the Maternal Mental Health Promotion Program for Expectant Mothers

Mari Ikeda¹, Kaori Nishigaki², Miharu Kida³, Ami Setoyama⁴, Kyoko Kobayashi⁵, Kiyoko Kamibeppu⁴

¹Nursing Administration and Advanced Clinical Nursing, Division of Health Science & Nursing, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan.
²Pediatric Nursing, Division of Nursing, Tokyo Healthcare University, Tokyo, Japan.
³The University of Tokyo Hospital, Tokyo, Japan.
⁴Family Nursing, Division of Health Science & Nursing, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan.
⁵Department of Child and Family Nursing, St. Luke’s International University School of Nursing, Tokyo, Japan.

DOI: 10.4236/ojn.2014.413104                

Abstract

Approximately 19% of women have minor or major depression in the first three months following delivery. The Maternal Mental Health Promotion Program is an intervention program designed to deliver during pregnancy to increase awareness and limits the effects of postpartum depression (PPD). The program was developed through a literature review and a focus group interview. It has three components (information on depressive symptoms during postpartum, reflecting on pregnancy, and the importance of good communication with one’s partner), delivered through lectures and group discussions using educational worksheets. The purpose of this paper was to describe the development, planning and implementing of an intervention program for expectant mothers to increase awareness and limits the effects of PPD. The program was evaluated by experienced midwives, and then delivered in antenatal classes where process evaluations were conducted. We confirmed that the objectives of the program were met and that the intervention was relevant to participants.

Keywords

Postpartum Depression, Prenatal Education, Intervention, Partner Communication

Conflicts of Interest

The authors declare no conflicts of interest.

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