Helping women cope with depression after losing a baby

IPT for major depression following perinatal loss

NIH-funded research Michigan State University · NIH-10892190

This study is looking to help women who have gone through the heartbreak of losing a baby and are dealing with depression by testing a special therapy designed just for them, which focuses on their unique feelings and challenges.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionMichigan State University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (East Lansing, United States)
Project IDNIH-10892190 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on women who have experienced perinatal loss, such as miscarriage or stillbirth, and are suffering from major depressive disorder (MDD). It aims to develop and test a structured treatment using interpersonal psychotherapy (IPT) principles tailored specifically for this population. The approach addresses the unique emotional challenges faced by these women, including grief, social support, and feelings of guilt. By providing a manualized treatment that can be used by various healthcare providers, the research seeks to improve mental health outcomes for these women.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are women who have recently experienced perinatal loss and are experiencing symptoms of major depressive disorder.

Not a fit: Patients who have not experienced perinatal loss or those who do not have symptoms of depression may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide effective therapeutic options for women struggling with depression after perinatal loss, potentially improving their mental health and quality of life.

How similar studies have performed: Previous pilot studies have shown promise in using IPT for treating depression in this specific context, indicating a potential for success in this larger research effort.

Where this research is happening

East Lansing, United States

Researchers

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 below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.