Mindfulness for men with pregnant partners: An integrative literature review (Part one)

Background
Men are as likely to suffer stressors associated with pregnancy as their pregnant partners, but are less likely to receive support. Mindfulness interventions are a possible way to enable men to manage and reduce stress that may provoke anger and depression.
Aim
This integrative review examined original research into using mindfulness as an intervention for men during the perinatal period.
Methods
Using the question, 'Can mindfulness based stress reduction reduce stress in men with pregnant partners during the perinatal period?', a comprehensive search retrieved 157 articles. Following defined inclusion and exclusion criteria, 2 original research papers were included in the review. Thematic analysis identified five themes, the first three of which will be discussed here.
Findings
Research suggests that men engaged in mindfulness-based stress reduction during the perinatal period experienced improvements in regulating emotions and handling stress, as well a deeper sense of connection with their pregnant partner.
Conclusion
To improve the wellbeing of men with pregnant partners, mindfulness-based stress reduction techniques are needed to help men to improve psychological wellbeing and better support their pregnant partners.