Effectiveness of laughter yoga in reducing postpartum depression symptoms: A randomized controlled study

ÜNVER KOCA H., ŞİMŞEK KÜÇÜKKELEPÇE D., Kucukkelepce O., KOÇYİĞİT A.

Explore, vol.21, no.4, 2025 (SCI-Expanded) identifier identifier

  • Publication Type: Article / Article
  • Volume: 21 Issue: 4
  • Publication Date: 2025
  • Doi Number: 10.1016/j.explore.2025.103195
  • Journal Name: Explore
  • Journal Indexes: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus, CINAHL, EMBASE, MEDLINE
  • Keywords: Laughter yoga, Postpartum depression, Women
  • Lokman Hekim University Affiliated: Yes

Abstract

Aim: We aimed to evaluate the positive effects of laughter yoga on many diseases and postpartum depression. Method: The study was randomized and controlled with a pretest-posttest control group and was conducted with 104 women. Data were collected with an introductory information form and Edinburgh Postpartum Depression Scale. Results: It was determined that Laughter Yoga (LY) significantly reduced postpartum depression symptoms (t (102) =-14.007; p=0.000<0,05). Conclusion: Laughter Yoga has been found effective in alleviating depression symptoms among postpartum women following six sessions of application. Given the sensitivity of the postpartum period and women's reluctance to use medications due to concerns about their newborns, it is advisable to promote the adoption of LY and similar alternative medicine practices.