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Relaxation Training and Expectation in the Treatment of Postpartum Distress
Journal article   Peer reviewed

Relaxation Training and Expectation in the Treatment of Postpartum Distress

Jane S Halonen and Richard H Passman
Journal of consulting and clinical psychology, Vol.53(6), pp.839-845
12/1985
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1037/0022-006X.53.6.839
PMID: 3910678
Web of Science ID: WOS:A1985AWL3100009

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Abstract

The effectiveness of relaxation training in reducing postpartum distress for 48 first-time mothers-to-be was examined via a treatment-component strategy. Prospective mothers had completed routine childbirth education classess in which they had received labor-specific relaxation training. They were then randomly assigned to either additional relaxation training, extended relaxation training that also emphasized likely postpartum stressors, exposure only to postpartum stressors, or a control discussion of their history. The Beck Depression Inventory and other measures were assessed one month prior to the child's birth, daily for nine days following the birth, and one month after birth. Compared with nonrelaxation conditions, both relaxation treatments reduced reported postpartal distress. However, the two conditions involving exposure to postpartum stressors reduced the degree of elation reported postpartally. Expectations about treatment effectiveness were not significant factors in treatment outcome. Relaxation techniques can be extended within childbirth preparation programs to assuage postpartum distress and possibly enhance the mother-child relationship.

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