Understanding mental health before and after elective pregnancy termination

Sociocultural context and mental health around an unintended pregnancy

NIH-funded research Univ of Maryland, College Park · NIH-10911796

This study looks at how having an elective termination of pregnancy affects the mental health of women and their families, while also considering how social and cultural factors play a role, so we can better support those going through this experience.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniv of Maryland, College Park NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (College Park, United States)
Project IDNIH-10911796 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how mental health is affected before and after an elective termination of pregnancy, focusing on the influence of sociocultural factors. It aims to gather data on the mental health experiences of women and their families during this process, considering the changes in societal attitudes and policies over the past 30 years. By examining diverse populations and their unique contexts, the study seeks to identify patterns and provide insights that could enhance mental health support for those undergoing elective terminations.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include women who are considering or have undergone an elective termination of pregnancy, particularly those from diverse racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic backgrounds.

Not a fit: Patients who are not considering an elective termination or those who have not experienced any mental health challenges related to pregnancy may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved mental health support and resources for women and families facing elective terminations.

How similar studies have performed: While there has been limited research on this topic in the past, this study aims to build on a very small body of existing work, making it a novel investigation into the sociocultural impacts on mental health around elective terminations.

Where this research is happening

College Park, 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.