Preventing perinatal depression in couples in rural India

Adaptation and pilot testing of a couples-based intervention to prevent perinatal depression in rural India

NIH-funded research University of California, San Francisco · NIH-10864570

This study is looking to help first-time pregnant couples in rural central India by testing a program that strengthens their relationship and support for each other to prevent depression during and after pregnancy.

Quick facts

Grant typeCareer grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California, San Francisco NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (San Francisco, United States)
Project IDNIH-10864570 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research aims to adapt and test a couples-based intervention to prevent perinatal depression, which affects many women during and after pregnancy. The approach focuses on improving relationship dynamics and social support between partners, addressing factors that contribute to depression. By conducting a pilot randomized controlled trial, the study will evaluate how well this intervention works in rural central India, specifically targeting first-time pregnant couples. The goal is to culturally adapt existing evidence-based methods to fit the local context and assess their feasibility and acceptability.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are first-time pregnant couples living in rural central India.

Not a fit: Patients who are not first-time parents or those living outside the targeted rural areas may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly reduce the incidence of perinatal depression among couples, leading to better mental health outcomes for mothers and healthier development for their children.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that couples-based interventions can effectively prevent perinatal depression in high-income settings, suggesting potential for success in similar low-income contexts.

Where this research is happening

San Francisco, 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.