Barriers to the Uptake of a Psychoeducational Intervention to Prevent Postpartum Depression: An Exploratory Study

Background: The study aimed to evaluate the assessment of usefulness, barriers, and adaptations (among other variables) made by professionals caring for perinatal women during the implementation of an evidence-based intervention (EBI) for preventing postpartum depression. Method: From 2016 to 2022, 120 professionals participated in a guided online course to implement the Postpartum Depression Prevention Intervention (PPD-PI). Socio-demographic data, achievement of objectives, and knowledge acquired to implement the intervention were retrieved from the Application for Registration. A purposely designed follow-up questionnaire with sixteen open and closed questions evaluated the intervention’s implementation including its usefulness, barriers, and adaptations made. Data was analyzed using descriptive statistics and thematic categorization of open-ended responses. Results: Participants, including psychologists, physicians, psychiatrists, social workers, and nurses, reported high satisfaction with the course and significant skill development. Most professionals adapted the intervention to their work settings by altering the order of the topics, number of sessions, and activities. Key barriers included lack of time, resources, and institutional support. The training and materials were seen as effective for disseminating the PPD-PI. Conclusions: Professionals expressed satisfaction with the implementation, although they found the assessment measurements too general. These findings constitute an initial approach to EBI dissemination and implementation in Mexico.