Psychological interventions to improve parental wellbeing after fetal abnormality diagnosis: a systematic scoping review.

BACKGROUND

Antenatal diagnoses of foetal abnormalities are associated with significant psychological distress for parents. This scoping review aims to identify and synthesise the existing literature on antenatally delivered psychological interventions for parents designed to support mental wellbeing following a foetal abnormality diagnosis.

METHODS

A prospectively registered protocol guided this scoping review, utilising methodologies outlined by Arksey and O'Malley (2005) and Levac et al. (2010). A systematic search was conducted using five electronic databases (PsycINFO, CINAHL, Medline, SCOPUS and ProQuest) with no date limits, including studies up to June 2024. Data was extracted following the Template for Intervention Description and Replication (TIDieR) checklist and synthesised using narrative synthesis.

RESULTS

Twelve articles were included, addressing congenital heart defects (n = 6), chromosomal disorders (n = 2), foetal surgical anomalies (n = 2), cleft lip (n = 1) and congenital abnormalities (n = 1). Interventions incorporated approaches such as cognitive behavioural therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, mindfulness and counselling. Individual support was the predominant approach across studies. All interventions were hospital-based, delivered by healthcare professionals, including psychologists, nurses and cardiologists, with formats ranging from single sessions to multi-session programmes. Most targeted anxiety and depressive symptoms, while some addressed stress, emotional preparedness, and decision-making.

CONCLUSIONS

Antenatally delivered psychological interventions are emerging, but the evidence base remains limited. Future interventions should be tailored to meet individual needs, offer flexible delivery, and encourage multidisciplinary collaboration. Additionally, addressing both individual and systemic factors should be prioritised in the development of future interventions, as this may enhance feasibility, reach and impact.