The impact of expressive writing on mental health after traumatic childbirth
The effects of expressive writing following traumatic childbirth
This study is looking at how writing about their feelings can help new moms who have had a tough childbirth and are dealing with stress afterwards, aiming to support their mental health and improve their overall well-being.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Massachusetts General Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10774333 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how expressive writing can help mothers who experience traumatic childbirth and develop symptoms of childbirth-related posttraumatic stress disorder (CB-PTSD). By screening new mothers in the hospital for acute stress responses, the study aims to provide early interventions that could alleviate symptoms and improve both maternal and child wellbeing. Participants will engage in writing exercises designed to process their experiences, potentially leading to better mental health outcomes. The study uses a randomized controlled trial approach to assess the effectiveness of this intervention.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are new mothers who have experienced a traumatic childbirth and are showing signs of acute stress response.
Not a fit: Patients who had a non-traumatic childbirth or do not exhibit acute stress responses may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve mental health outcomes for mothers after traumatic childbirth, enhancing their ability to bond with their infants.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that expressive writing can be beneficial for mental health in various populations, suggesting potential success for this novel application in postpartum care.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Massachusetts General Hospital — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Dekel, Sharon — Massachusetts General Hospital
- Study coordinator: Dekel, Sharon
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.