How prenatal stress from isolation and uncertainty affects mothers and their children
“Overlapping and Discrete Pathways Through Which Prenatal Isolation and Uncertainty Stress Impact Maternal Mental Health and Child Neurodevelopment
This study is looking at how stress from being isolated and uncertain during the COVID-19 pandemic affects the mental health of pregnant women and the development of their babies, and it’s for expectant moms in New York City who want to help us understand these important connections over time.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | New York University School of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10819506 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the impact of prenatal stressors, specifically social isolation and uncertainty due to the COVID-19 pandemic, on maternal mental health and child neurodevelopment. By recruiting 200 pregnant women from New York City, the study will collect biological samples and assess child behavior at various developmental stages. The goal is to understand the physiological mechanisms linking maternal stress to child outcomes, providing insights into how these stressors affect both mothers and their infants. Participants will be involved in a longitudinal study that tracks changes over time.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are pregnant women experiencing social isolation or uncertainty during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Not a fit: Patients who are not pregnant or those who are not experiencing significant stressors related to isolation or uncertainty 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, ultimately benefiting their children's development.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that prenatal stress can significantly impact maternal and child health, suggesting that this study's approach is grounded in established findings.
Where this research is happening
New York, United States
- New York University School of Medicine — New York, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Thomason, Moriah E — New York University School of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Thomason, Moriah E
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 below.