The effect of mindfulness based stress reduction training on anxiety level and physiological parameters in pregnant women diagnosed with preeclampsia

The research was conducted as a randomized controlled trial to evaluate the effect of Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) training on anxiety levels and physiological parameters in pregnant women diagnosed with preeclampsia. The research included pregnant women diagnosed with preeclampsia who applied to the Perinatology Clinic of Kartal Dr. Lütfi Kırdar City Hospital between April 18, 2025, and October 18, 2025. The training was delivered via a web-based platform. A total of 80 pregnant women were included in the intervention and control groups. The intervention group received MBSR training in addition to routine monitoring and care protocols for eight weeks, while the control group received only routine monitoring and care. Assessments were conducted for both groups before the intervention and at the end of the eighth week. Data were collected using the Informed Consent Form, Pregnant Women Introductory Information Form, Physiological Parameters Assessment Form, and the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI). In the intervention group, a statistically significant decrease was observed in the mean scores of state and trait anxiety over time (p<0,001). No significant changes were found in the control group for state anxiety (p=0,486) or trait anxiety (p=0,478). Although no statistically significant differences were observed in the physiological parameters (blood pressure, pulse, respiration, temperature, and blood and urine analyses) in the experimental group, a significant change was detected only in the respiratory parameter in the control group (p=0,011). In conclusion, Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction training reduces anxiety levels in pregnant women diagnosed with preeclampsia but does not produce significant changes in physiological parameters.