Barriers and Advantages of Internet‑based Psychotherapy in the Treatment of Depression in Iranian Pregnant Women: A Qualitative Study

Abstract

Background: In recent years, internet‑based treatments have been considered reliable alternatives to face‑to‑face therapies. However, the advantages and disadvantages of using internet‑based treatment in pregnant women require further study. The study investigated the challenges, advantages, and barriers of internet‑based psychotherapy in the treatment of depression among Iranian pregnant women. Materials and Methods: In a content analysis, semi‑structured interviews were conducted with a total of 20 participants from September 2022 to March 2023. The study included depressed pregnant women who had sought care at the midwifery centers of Babol University of Medical Sciences or specialized offices of gynecologists and midwives in Iran. The statistical population included 14 depressed pregnant women and six psychotherapists who were selected purposefully. Audio‑recorded interviews were transcribed verbatim and analyzed using framework analysis. Results: A total of 294 codes were extracted. The results showed three main themes and their associated 13 subthemes. The first main theme, “Barriers to Internet‑based Therapy,” consists of various barriers faced by the participants. The second main theme, “Suggestions to Overcome Barriers,” examines participants’ suggested strategies for dealing with challenges. The third main theme, “Advantages of Online Therapy,” highlights the perceived benefits of internet‑based therapy. Conclusions: To increase the effectiveness of online treatment in pregnant women, attention should be paid to improving technology, designing appropriate platforms, providing more education to patients, and implementing integrated approaches that combine face‑to‑face sessions with online treatment. Although online psychotherapies have their challenges, they have important benefits for pregnant women.