Posttraumatic stress disorder in the preconception period: an open pilot feasibility study

Abstract

Background: Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms are associated with poorer direct and downstream health outcomes for reproductive-aged individuals. There is limited literature targeting treatment of PTSD symptoms during reproductive time periods, especially the preconception period, yet effective and acceptable interventions are needed. Objective: The current study is an open pilot feasibility study that aimed to explore acceptability, feasibility, and preliminary efficacy of a 4-week virtual Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) psychotherapy group for trauma-exposed reproductive aged women with PTSD. Methods: A trauma-exposed treatment-seeking sample (N = 8, mean age = 30, 60% White) participated in an ACT for PTSD group (two cohorts). Participants completed self-report measures assessing PTSD symptoms at baseline, 1-week post-intervention, and 1-month post-intervention. Results: Participation in the group was feasible, with most participants (87.5%) attending most sessions (≥ 75%). Participants reported high levels of acceptability and satisfaction. The intervention demonstrated preliminary efficacy in the preconception period as participants showed clinically meaningful reduction in PTSD symptoms (≥ 10 points on PTSD Checklist for DSM-5 (PCL-5)) from baseline (M = 46.25, SD = 24.04) to post-intervention (M = 27.33, SD = 22.35, d = 0.82) and baseline to follow-up (M = 34.25, SD = 31.58, d = 0.43). Conclusion: This is the first study to look at a group intervention to reduce PTSD for individuals in the preconception period. The protocol was acceptable, feasible, and efficacious, although there were challenges to consider for future tailoring.