How stress after childbirth affects heart health and mental well-being

Psychosocial stress-induced neurometabolic dysfunction as a mediator ofpostpartum cardiovascular disease

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH CAROLINA AT COLUMBIA · NIH-11107982

This study is looking at how stress after having a baby can affect new moms' heart health and mood, and it hopes to find ways to help them feel better both physically and mentally.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF SOUTH CAROLINA AT COLUMBIA (nih funded)
Locations1 site (COLUMBIA, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11107982 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the link between psychosocial stress and the development of cardiovascular disease and postpartum depression in new mothers. It aims to understand how stress experienced during the postpartum period can lead to changes in heart function and mental health. The study will explore the role of mitochondria in these processes, focusing on how stress impacts both cardiac health and depressive symptoms. By examining these relationships, the research seeks to identify potential interventions to improve outcomes for postpartum women.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are postpartum women who are experiencing symptoms of depression or have a history of cardiovascular issues.

Not a fit: Patients who are not postpartum or do not have any cardiovascular or mental health concerns may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better prevention and treatment strategies for cardiovascular disease and postpartum depression in new mothers.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that psychosocial stress can significantly impact both mental and cardiovascular health, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

COLUMBIA, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: atherosclerotic coronary disease

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.