Interventions to address baby blues among postpartum mothers: A systematic review of effectiveness and implementation.

Abstract

Peripartum mood disorders encompass a spectrum of severity, ranging from transient and self-resolving "baby blues" to the more incapacitating postpartum depression. This systematic review evaluates non-pharmacological interventions targeting the prevention and management of postpartum blues among pregnant and postpartum women. Literature searches were conducted in ScienceDirect, Cochrane Library, Scopus, and Medline for studies published up to December 2023. Eligible studies included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and quasi-experimental designs investigating interventions for postpartum blues. Quality and risk of bias were assessed using CASP, JBI, and RoB 2 tools. Out of 306 articles screened, 17 studies met the inclusion criteria. Interventions were categorized into seven areas: mind (e.g., meditation, music therapy), bonding (e.g., mother-infant attachment), massage (e.g., effleurage), psychological support (e.g., thought-stopping therapy), education (e.g., psychoeducation), stimulation (e.g., acupressure), and oral treatments (e.g., herbal supplements). Quantitative findings indicated significant reductions in postpartum blues scores, with effect sizes ranging from moderate to strong depending on the intervention. Progressive muscle relaxation and music therapy demonstrated the most immediate effects, while spousal involvement enhanced long-term outcomes. This review highlights the diverse and culturally adaptable interventions available, though no single approach proved superior. Future research should refine assessment tools and examine longitudinal impacts of these therapies.