Remote monitoring of fetal health in high-risk pregnancies using a digital solution
Randomized controlled trial of a novel digital health solution to enable remote fetal monitoring in high risk pregnancies
This study is testing a new app called Invu that helps women with high-risk pregnancies keep track of their baby's health from home, making it easier for them to get care without needing to go to the doctor as often, especially during tough times like the COVID-19 pandemic.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pennsylvania NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10682538 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates a new digital health platform called Invu, designed to enable remote monitoring of fetal health for women with high-risk pregnancies. The platform utilizes bio-potential and acoustic sensors to passively detect maternal and fetal heart rates through a wearable belt, allowing for virtual prenatal care visits. This approach aims to reduce the need for frequent in-person appointments, particularly during public health emergencies like the COVID-19 pandemic, which can disproportionately affect underserved populations. The study will assess the effectiveness of this technology in improving access to care and reducing health disparities.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are women with high-risk pregnancies, particularly those from underserved communities facing barriers to in-person care.
Not a fit: Patients who are not pregnant or those with low-risk pregnancies may not receive any benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly enhance access to prenatal care for high-risk pregnant women, potentially reducing the risk of stillbirth.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that telehealth solutions can improve access to prenatal care and reduce racial disparities, indicating a promising avenue for this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
Philadelphia, United States
- University of Pennsylvania — Philadelphia, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Schwartz, Nadav — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: Schwartz, Nadav
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.