February 2025

Interventions that prevent or reduce perinatal loneliness and its proximal determinants

This restricted scoping review synthesises interventions that intentionally or unintentionally reduce perinatal loneliness, or its proximate determinants such as social connectedness and social support. The review identifies six broad intervention categories, including shared-identity groups, parent and baby groups, creative health approaches, and holistic multidisciplinary support. The article also identifies key mechanisms that may reduce loneliness, including opportunities for social connection, positive relationships with professionals or volunteers, normalisation of difficulties, meaningful activity, and practical support that helps parents overcome barriers to connection.

Dr Ruth Naughton-Doe

University of York