Comparative effectiveness of interventions for the prevention and treatment of perinatal depression: A systematic review and network meta-analysis

Background: Several interventions have been investigated addressing perinatal depression; however, interventions have not been compared using both direct and indirect evidence. This study compared the relative effectiveness of all interventions that prevent depression (objective 1) or treat depression symptoms (objective 2) in perinatal women.

Methods: Eight databases searched from their inception to March 2024. Inclusion criteria were randomised controlled trials in perinatal women participants evaluating any interventions that addressed prevention or treatment of depression. Two random-effects Bayesian network meta-analyses were conducted using studies with perinatal women participants reporting frequency of depression or reporting depression severity. For objective 1 odds ratios (OR) and objective 2 standardised mean differences (SMD) were used.

Results: A total of 177 articles were included (n = 76 objective 1, n = 101 objective 2). For objective 1; mindfulness was the highest-ranking intervention (SCURA=88), with significant OR compared to treatment as usual (TAU) (OR=0.21; 0.06, 0.71 95 %CrI). Other interventions with significant OR, compared to TAU included: pharmacological treatments, CBT, physical activities, education, and collaborative care. For objective 2; interpersonal therapy plus massage was the highest-ranking intervention (SCURA=89) with significant SMD compared to TAU (SMD=-1.38; -2.54, -0.21). Other interventions with significant SMD compared to TAU: IPT, alternative therapies, physical activities, mindfulness, CBT, collaborative care, education, and enhanced TAU. Pharmacological treatments were effective compared to sham/placebo.

Conclusion: CBT, mindfulness, physical activity, collaborative care, education, and pharmacological interventions were effective in addressing prevention and treatment of perinatal depression symptoms compared to control arms. Healthcare providers may consider offering these interventions to perinatal women.