Exploring Pregnant Women’s Perspectives in Developing a WeChat-Delivered Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia: A Qualitative Study

Abstract

<p><strong>Study objectives: </strong>This study aims to explore the perception of a WeChat-delivered cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I) to manage insomnia in pregnant women in mainland, China.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>A descriptive qualitative research design was used. Focus groups and individual interviews with semi-structured questions were conducted via a video conferencing platform with 29 Chinese pregnant women with insomnia symptoms during December 2023 to March 2024. Data were analyzed using content analysis.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>Three themes and 10 subthemes were identified: (1) Appreciating sleep intervention for pregnancy insomnia; (2) Suggestions for intervention contents; (3) Recommendations on the format of WeChat articles. Participants appreciated the intervention's focus on pregnancy insomnia, recognizing its potential to address previously overlooked challenges. Participants indicated a willingness to engage with the program, although they raised concerns about an excessive focus on sleep-related issues. Suggestions for content improvement included using clear and plain language, incorporating scientific explanations to reinforce credibility, combining generalized content with personalized insomnia solutions, and including information relevant to the perinatal period. Participants also emphasized the need for family involvement to support them in managing insomnia. Regarding the format of WeChat articles, participants highlighted form is secondary to content helpfulness, while many suggested using engaging titles and visuals. Additionally, some prefer the short-form videos delivered via short video platforms over WeChat-delivered methods.</p><p><strong>Conclusions: </strong>WeChat for delivering CBT-I for reducing insomnia symptoms was well received by the Chinese pregnant women and the identified main features may facilitate the design for future intervention studies.</p>