Reducing stress levels in women with recurrent pregnancy loss through intervention: a quasi-experimental study

Abstract

Recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL) is a severe clinical and psychological challenge associated with increased levels of stress, anxiety, depression, and reduced quality of life among women. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of an 8-week psychological intervention in reducing stress and associated psychopathological symptoms in women with RPL.

A quasi-experimental study included 98 women aged 23–45 years with a history of two or more pregnancy losses. Participants were assigned to an intervention group (n=49) and a control group (n=49). The intervention program included cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), psychoeducation, mindfulness, and emotional regulation techniques. Psychological status was assessed before the intervention, immediately after its completion, and at 3-month follow-up using the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10), Depression Anxiety Stress Scales (DASS-21), Impact of Event Scale–Revised (IES-R), and General Self-Efficacy Scale (GSES).

Baseline stress levels did not differ significantly between the groups. After 8 weeks of intervention, perceived stress in the experimental group decreased from 24.6±4.1 to 16.2±3.5, compared with a decrease from 24.3±3.9 to 23.8±4.2 in the control group (p<0.001; Cohen’s d=1.97). Significant reductions in symptoms of depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress were also observed, accompanied by increased self-efficacy (p<0.001). Repeated-measures ANOVA confirmed the stability of the intervention effects at follow-up (F=45.32, p<0.001, η²p=0.38).

The comprehensive psychological intervention demonstrated high effectiveness in reducing psychological distress and improving psychological well-being among women with RPL. Integrating such programs into routine obstetric and gynecological care and women’s health clinics may contribute to a multidisciplinary approach to the management of recurrent pregnancy loss and provide essential psychological support for affected women.