The Effect of Mindfulness-Based Self-Compassion Training on Childbirth Fear, Pregnancy Stress, and Comfort in Primiparous Women

The Effect of Mindfulness-Based Self-Compassion Training on Childbirth Fear, Pregnancy Stress, and Comfort in Primiparous Women

The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of mindfulness-based self-compassion training provided to primiparous women on fear of childbirth, pregnancy stress, and comfort.

Research Hypotheses H1a: Mindfulness-based self-compassion training provided to primiparous women reduces fear of childbirth.

H1b: Mindfulness-based self-compassion training provided to primiparous women reduces pregnancy stress.

H1c: Mindfulness-based self-compassion training provided to primiparous women increases comfort.

The research will be conducted as a randomized controlled experimental study. The research is planned to be conducted at the Pregnancy School of Sincan Training and Research Hospital between August 1, 2025 and August 1, 2026. Sincan Training and Research Hospital has eight obstetrics and gynecology outpatient clinics, each staffed by one doctor, one midwife, and one medical secretary. The hospital also has one prenatal school, which provides prenatal education for pregnant women. Two midwives work at the prenatal school. Patient privacy will be protected throughout the research period.

The study population will consist of primiparous women applying to the Pregnancy School of Sincan Training and Research Hospital. The study sample was determined using the G*Power 3.1.9.7 program. In the power analysis, a large effect size (d=0.80) was used, based on the effect size range table reported by Cohen (11). According to the calculation; With an effect size of d = 0.80, a margin of error of 0.05 (α = 0.05), a confidence level of 0.95 (1-α), and a representativeness of 0.95 for the universe (1-β = 0.95), the sample size was calculated as at least 36 women for each group (SExperiment = 36, SControl = 36), a total of 72 women, including the experimental and control groups. When the dropout rate in the study was evaluated as 10%, it was decided to include a total of 80 women in each group (SExperiment = 40, SControl = 40). Women who agreed to participate in the study and met the inclusion criteria will be assigned to the experimental and control groups using the simple randomization method. The sampling process of the study will be carried out based on CONSORT criteria.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Women aged between 18 and 45, Women who are pregnant for the first time, Women who live with their partner, Women who are 28 weeks or older in pregna

Exclusion Criteria:

• Women with multiple pregnancies, Women with any communication disorder, Women with a diagnosed psychiatric disorder, Women who have any health problems during pregnancy (such as hypertension, gestational diabetes, etc.) will be excluded from the study.