How pregnancy stress affects mothers' ability to care for their babies

Psychobiological Mediators of the Impact of Pregnancy Stress on Maternal Sensitivity

NIH-funded research Michigan State University · NIH-11137303

This study is looking at how stress during pregnancy can affect a mom's mental health and her ability to care for her baby, so we can find ways to help both moms and their little ones feel better.

Quick facts

Grant typeR03 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionMichigan State University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (East Lansing, United States)
Project IDNIH-11137303 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the effects of stress during pregnancy on mothers' mental health and their caregiving abilities. It aims to understand how mental health symptoms and hormonal changes interact during pregnancy and influence maternal sensitivity after childbirth. By tracking these factors over time, the study seeks to identify critical links that could help improve outcomes for both mothers and their children. The research will involve assessments of mental health and hormone levels in pregnant women to uncover patterns that may affect caregiving behaviors.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are pregnant women experiencing high levels of stress or mental health symptoms.

Not a fit: Patients who are not pregnant or those without significant stress or mental health concerns may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved support and interventions for pregnant women experiencing stress, enhancing maternal sensitivity and child outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that addressing mental health during pregnancy can positively impact maternal and child outcomes, suggesting that this approach has potential for success.

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.