Investigating how oil and gas development affects fertility and pregnancy in marginalized communities

A preconception cohort study on oil and gas development, fertility, and pregnancy

NIH-funded research Boston University Medical Campus · NIH-11092453

This study is looking at how living near oil and gas development might affect fertility and pregnancy outcomes, especially for people in communities that face challenges like segregation, and it aims to help understand how environmental factors impact reproductive health.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionBoston University Medical Campus NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Boston, United States)
Project IDNIH-11092453 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research examines the impact of oil and gas development on fertility and pregnancy outcomes, particularly in communities that experience residential segregation. It focuses on how environmental hazards associated with these developments may disproportionately affect marginalized populations. By using a preconception cohort approach, the study aims to gather data on reproductive health and environmental exposures, providing insights into the relationship between these factors. Participants will be monitored over time to assess how their environment influences their fertility and pregnancy experiences.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living in areas with significant oil and gas development, particularly those from marginalized or racially devalued communities.

Not a fit: Patients who do not reside in areas impacted by oil and gas development or who are not planning to conceive may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and interventions to protect reproductive health in communities affected by environmental hazards.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific focus on oil and gas development and its reproductive impacts in segregated communities is novel, related research has shown that environmental exposures can significantly affect health outcomes.

Where this research is happening

Boston, 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.