Reducing PTSD symptoms in pregnant and postpartum women to improve health outcomes

Breaking the Cycle of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder for High-Risk Perinatal Populations

NIH-funded research Indiana University Indianapolis · NIH-10949372

This study is looking at how helping pregnant and new moms with PTSD can improve their health and their babies' health, especially for those who are at higher risk, like Black women and those living in rural areas.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionIndiana University Indianapolis NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Indianapolis, United States)
Project IDNIH-10949372 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding how reducing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms in pregnant and postpartum women can lead to better health outcomes for both mothers and their infants. It specifically targets high-risk groups, including Black women and those living in rural areas, who often face significant health disparities. The study will involve a randomized controlled pilot approach to evaluate the acceptability and feasibility of a brief intervention designed to treat perinatal PTSD. By engaging these vulnerable populations, the research aims to address the gaps in existing treatments and improve overall maternal health.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are pregnant or postpartum women, especially those who are Black or living in rural areas and experiencing PTSD symptoms.

Not a fit: Patients who are not pregnant or postpartum, or those who do not have PTSD symptoms, may not receive benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved mental health and health outcomes for mothers and their infants, particularly in underserved populations.

How similar studies have performed: While there is limited research specifically targeting perinatal PTSD in these populations, existing evidence-based treatments for PTSD have shown success in other contexts.

Where this research is happening

Indianapolis, 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 2026-06-10 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.