Application of implementation science frameworks to inform the adaptation process of an evidence-based eating disorder prevention program for high-risk perinatal individuals

• Published in: Implementation research and practice Vol. 6; p. 26334895251319811
• Main Authors: Vanderkruik, Rachel, Woodworth, Emily C., Frisch, Caroline M., Nelson, Stacey, Dunk, Madison M., Freeman, Marlene P., Cohen, Lee S., Stice, Eric, Bartels, Stephen J.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: United States SAGE Publishing 01.01.2025
• Subjects: body dissatisfaction; eating disorders; user-centered design; intervention adaptation; perinatal period; prevention; implementation science
• ISSN: 2633-4895; 2633-4895
• DOI: 10.1177/26334895251319811

Plain Language Summary Process of adapting an evidenced-based eating disorder prevention program for high-risk perinatal individuals. Pregnant and postpartum individuals experience high rates of disordered eating, body dissatisfaction, and eating disorder (ED) relapse. ED relapse is a concern given the detrimental consequences for both birthing people and their offspring. However, there are to-date no evidence-based programs that address these issues among the perinatal population. Aiming to help address this gap in care, we describe the process for selecting and adapting an evidence-based ED prevention program to fit the needs of pregnant individuals with histories of an ED or disordered eating behaviors. This work applies multiple implementation science frameworks to guide the adaptation process of the program to be delivered during pregnancy. We employed a user-centered design by engaging individuals with lived experience relative to the population of interest in the adaptation process and mapped modifications to an implementation science framework. This intervention has excellent potential for scalability and implementation given that it is group-based, peer-delivered, and conducted virtually. Further research will address the feasibility of the program and explore effectiveness through a randomized control trial.