Optimizing Non-Pharmacological Support for Perinatal Mental Health: A Bayesian Network Meta-Analysis of Intervention Effects by Pregnancy/Postpartum Stage

Purpose of Review: Non-pharmacological interventions for perinatal mental health lack personalized guidance tailored to the distinct stages of pregnancy. To address this evidence gap, this study employed a network meta-analysis, aiming to identify the optimal non-pharmacological intervention strategies for the perinatal period. Findings: The analysis included 153 RCTs. For prenatal patients, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) proved most effective for depression (SMD = -1.27, 95% CI = -1.98, -0.55), while mindfulness was most effective for anxiety (SMD = -1.44, 95% CI = -2.11, -0.77). For postpartum patients, music therapy (SMD = -1.20, 95% CI = -2.05, -0.36) and educational interventions (SMD = -1.20, 95% CI = -2.05, -0.36) proved most effective. For postpartum anxiety, relaxation training was most effective (SMD = -1.90, 95% CI = -2.50, -1.31). For prevention, music interventions were most effective in reducing the risk of postpartum depression (SMD = -1.28, 95% CI = -2.44, -0.13) and anxiety (SMD = -1.53, 95% CI = -1.92, -1.15). Summary: During pregnancy, prioritize cognitive behavioral therapy and mindfulness-based interventions to alleviate symptoms, supplemented by music therapy and psychotherapy for prevention to reduce postpartum risks. For postpartum depression, prioritize music therapy and educational interventions.