Developing a psychological intervention to support the mental wellbeing of expectant parents following antenatal diagnosis of congenital heart disease

Interviews with healthcare professionals highlighted perceptions of parental coping, emotional needs, potential intervention components, and barriers to accessing psychological support within existing services.<br><br>The second study reports a scoping review synthesising interventions designed to support parental psychological wellbeing following antenatal diagnosis of fetal abnormalities. Twelve studies were identified, indicating a limited and early-stage evidence base.

Nevertheless, several potentially transferable components were identified, including support for emotional coping, trauma-informed care,<br>parent-baby bonding, and opportunities for peer connection.<br><br>The third study used the RAND/UCLA Appropriateness Method with parent (n=34) and professional (n=22) panels to prioritise key intervention components. High agreement was reached regarding hybrid delivery models, multidisciplinary collaboration, trauma-informed communication, information provision, and emotional support.<br><br>Findings from across the thesis informed the development of an intervention logic model and programme theory outlining how a psychologically informed intervention may support parental wellbeing following antenatal CHD diagnosis.

The thesis concludes with a feasibility protocol outlining next steps for evaluating acceptability, feasibility, and implementation within routine antenatal CHD services.<br><br><i>Thesis embargoed until 31st July 2028</i>