Investigating deaths related to drugs, self-harm, and violence during and after pregnancy in the US

Pregnancy-associated mortality and morbidity due to drugs, self-harm, and violence in the United States

NIH-funded research Michigan State University · NIH-10909877

This study is looking into why more pregnant women and new moms in the U.S. are facing serious health issues or even dying due to drug use, self-harm, and violence, so we can better understand the problem and help those who are at risk.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionMichigan State University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (East Lansing, United States)
Project IDNIH-10909877 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research aims to understand the rising rates of maternal mortality and morbidity associated with drug use, self-harm, and violence among pregnant women and new mothers in the United States. By analyzing national data, the study seeks to provide accurate estimates of these deaths, which are often underreported due to limitations in death certificate data. The research will also explore trends and disparities in these outcomes, as well as identify risk factors that could help healthcare providers better support at-risk women during pregnancy and the postpartum period.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include pregnant women and new mothers, particularly those who may be experiencing issues related to drug use, self-harm, or violence.

Not a fit: Patients who are not pregnant or new mothers, or those who do not face risks related to drugs, self-harm, or violence, may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved identification and support for pregnant women at risk of drug-related issues, self-harm, and violence, ultimately reducing maternal mortality and morbidity.

How similar studies have performed: While there has been significant research on maternal health, this specific focus on drug use, self-harm, and violence during and after pregnancy is relatively novel and has not been extensively studied.

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.