Challenges recruiting for a peer support intervention for pregnant teenagers with antenatal depression

Background: Robust research is needed to improve tailored support for perinatal mental health. However, recruitment can be challenging, including in Randomised Controlled Trials (RCTs). Aims: This paper shares lessons about the research process of a feasibility RCT study that failed to recruit participants (pregnant women aged 16-19 years with depressive symptoms). Methods: Semi-structured interviews (n=18) with a purposive sample of Peer Support Workers, and professionals involved in development and delivery. Findings: Thematic analysis generated the following themes: the potential of the intervention and role of Peer Support Workers, including further research with pregnant teenagers; and the importance of ongoing engagement and collaboration to design tailored interventions, including practical considerations for working with clinicians. Conclusion: Peer support interventions are highly valued in perinatal care by midwives, researchers and Peer Support Workers. There are challenges to overcome in recruiting to and delivering RCTs on peer support interventions specific to teenagers in an NHS setting which must be considered carefully.

Citation

Hopley, R., McCormack, F. (2025) Challenges recruiting for a peer support intervention for pregnant teenagers with antenatal depression. British Journal of Midwifery, 34 (1). https://doi.org/10.12968/bjom.2025.0062

Type

Journal article

Language

en

Description

This document is the Accepted Manuscript version of a Published Work that appeared in final form in British Journal of Midwifery, copyright © MA Healthcare, after peer review and technical editing by the publisher. To access the final edited and published work see https://www.magonlinelibrary.com/doi/abs/10.12968/bjom.2025.0062

ISSN

0969-4900

EISSN

0969-4900

Collections

Institute for Community Research and Development