Effects of a web-based program for the physical and mental health of postpartum women during the COVID-19 pandemic : Part 1

Abstract

【Objective】This study aimed to evaluate effects of a web-based program for the physical and mental health of postpartum women during COVID-19 pandemic. 【Method】142 women who were less than one year postpartum took part in the web-based program agreed to participate in this study. Data were analyzed for the 71 participants who completed all four programs and surveys. The program included stretching, muscle strengthening, dialogue between participants. The outcome measures were physical condition, WHO Subjective Well-being Inventory (SUBI), and changing self-care behavior. A web-based survey was conducted four times : before the first session (BL), within one week after the final session (P1), and one month (P2) and three months after the program (P3). 【Results】A significant difference was found in physical condition and changing self-care behavior. A significant improve in SUBI positive affect was seen at P1 (43.6±5.9) and at P2 (43.5±6.2) compared to BL (41.4±6.8). A significant improvement in SUBI negative affect was seen at P3 (53.8±6.4) compared to the BL (49.7±5.8). 【Discussion】The web-based program for the physical and mental health of postpartum women contributed to improvements in physical condition and subjective well-being and facilitated changing self-care behavior.