An online program to help prevent anxiety in new mothers
Official title: Preventing Perinatal Anxiety: Testing an Internet-delivered Intervention
Funded at West Virginia University · NIH-10654102 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing an online program called P-POD that helps new moms and their partners manage and prevent anxiety during pregnancy and after childbirth, making it easier for them to get support from home.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R15 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | West Virginia University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Morgantown, United States) |
| Project start | May 16, 2023 |
| Project end | May 15, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $456,000 |
| NIH project number | 1R15HD109689-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10654102 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include expectant and new mothers experiencing anxiety, as well as their partners.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not expecting a child or who do not experience anxiety may not receive benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates an Internet-based program called 'Preventing Postpartum Onset Distress' (P-POD) designed to help mothers and their partners reduce and prevent anxiety during the perinatal period. The program is self-guided and rooted in cognitive-behavioral theory, addressing factors that contribute to postpartum anxiety, such as prenatal anxiety and lack of partner support. By providing accessible mental health resources online, the program aims to overcome barriers faced by mothers, especially those in underserved areas. Participants will engage with the program in the privacy of their own homes, making it easier to access support.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly reduce anxiety levels in new mothers, leading to better health outcomes for both mothers and their infants.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown success with similar Internet-based interventions for mental health, indicating that this approach could be effective.
Where this research is happening
-
West Virginia University
Morgantown, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Roley-Roberts, Michelle Elizabeth — West Virginia University
- Study coordinator: Roley-Roberts, Michelle Elizabeth
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.