Cognitive behavioural therapy for intolerance of uncertainty: A study protocol for the prevention of postpartum anxiety.

In 30 seconds

This paper describes a proof-of-concept randomised clinical trial protocol testing whether cognitive behavioural therapy targeting intolerance of uncertainty (CBT-IU) during pregnancy can reduce postpartum anxiety risk. Pregnant individuals considered at increased risk, defined by a baseline Intolerance of Uncertainty Scale score of 64 or greater, will be assigned to six weekly CBT-IU sessions or care as usual and followed 6–12 weeks postpartum. The protocol outlines the planned intervention and comparison; it reports no trial outcomes or evidence of effectiveness.

Key findings

• The planned trial will randomise pregnant individuals with an Intolerance of Uncertainty Scale score of 64 or greater to CBT-IU or care as usual.
• CBT-IU comprises six weekly sessions using psychoeducation, behavioural experiments, imaginal exposure, and problem-solving.
• Participants are to be followed through 6–12 weeks postpartum; the protocol reports no results.

Why it matters

Anxiety is described as a common perinatal mental health concern, and intolerance of uncertainty as a risk factor for worsening postpartum anxiety. Testing a targeted intervention during pregnancy could clarify whether this risk factor is a useful focus for prevention. Because this is a protocol, it establishes the research question and planned approach, not whether the intervention works.

What to keep in mind

This is a trial protocol and provides no outcome data, so effectiveness and safety cannot yet be assessed.