Mindfulness Training and Quality of Life Among PregnantWomen: A Randomized Clinical Trial

Background: The pregnancy period is associated with a variety of physical and psychological changes, which can affect the females’ quality of life (QOL). Objectives: The current study aimed to examine the effect of mindfulness training on QOL among pregnant females. Methods: In this clinical trial, 80 pregnant females eligible for inclusion were selected by convenience sampling method from Akramian, Taleghani and Ketabchi health centers in Kashan, Iran. The participants were randomly allocated into experimental and control groups (n = 40, each group) by block randomization method. Females in the experimental group received eight sessions of 90-minute mindfulness training, while females in the control group only received routine prenatal care services. Data were collected using a demographic questionnaire and a short-form 36 (SF-36) health survey questionnaire to measure the QOL. Chi-square, independent samples T-test and repeated measures analysis of variance were used to analyze the data. Results: The results showed that the totalQOLscore and subscales of emotional role functioning, vitality, mental health, social functioning and general health in the experimental group had significant changes compared to those of the control group. However, there was no significant difference between other subscales. The mean total QOL score before intervention was 44.84 4.44 and after intervention and follow-up was 50.423.71 and 49.425.24, respectively (P < 0.05). Conclusions: Mindfulness training can be used as a psychological prenatal care to moderate negative emotions, improve social functioning and cope with psychological and physical changes.