NIH-funded research NIH-funded research

Exploring substance use during pregnancy

Official title: A Mixed Methods Exploration of Prenatal Polysubstance Use

Funded at Virginia Commonwealth University · NIH-11038944 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at how using different substances during pregnancy affects expectant moms in the U.S. and what social factors might play a role in their choices, by talking to pregnant or new moms about their experiences and also looking at national data for bigger trends.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionVirginia Commonwealth University
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Richmond, United States)
Project startFebruary 1, 2025
Project endJanuary 31, 2027
Funding year2025
Award (this year)$53,956
NIH project number1R36DA062213-01
Project IDNIH-11038944 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research include pregnant or postpartum individuals who are engaging in or have a history of polysubstance use.

Less likely to help

Patients who are not pregnant or postpartum, or those who do not engage in substance use, may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research investigates the patterns and impacts of polysubstance use among pregnant individuals in the U.S. It aims to understand how various social determinants of health influence substance use behaviors during pregnancy. The study will involve qualitative interviews with pregnant or postpartum individuals to gather insights into their experiences and challenges. Additionally, it will analyze existing national data to identify broader trends and correlations related to prenatal polysubstance use.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved interventions and support systems for pregnant individuals struggling with substance use, ultimately enhancing maternal and infant health outcomes.

How similar studies have gone: While there is existing research on individual substance use during pregnancy, this study's focus on polysubstance use and its socioecological context is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

  • Virginia Commonwealth University
    Richmond, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Eglovitch, Michelle — Virginia Commonwealth University
  • Study coordinator: Eglovitch, Michelle

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.