Understanding postpartum pregnancy risks to improve birth spacing

Measuring Postpartum Pregnancy Risk to Improve Healthy Birth Intervals

NIH-funded research Johns Hopkins University · NIH-11135033

This study is looking at what affects the health of new moms in Ethiopia after they give birth, especially how closely they have their babies, so we can find better ways to help them plan their families and stay healthy.

Quick facts

Grant typeR03 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionJohns Hopkins University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Baltimore, United States)
Project IDNIH-11135033 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the factors that contribute to postpartum pregnancy risks among women in Ethiopia, particularly focusing on the period after childbirth. It aims to identify when women are most at risk for short birth intervals and the behaviors that influence this risk. By analyzing data from over 5,200 women, the study will explore contraceptive use, sexual activity, and menstrual cycles to develop targeted family planning interventions. The goal is to enhance maternal and newborn health outcomes by promoting effective birth spacing.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are postpartum women in Ethiopia, particularly those who may be at risk for short birth intervals and are not currently using contraception.

Not a fit: Patients who are not postpartum or those living outside of Ethiopia may not receive any benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved family planning strategies that enhance maternal and newborn health by promoting healthier birth intervals.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that understanding behavioral and biological factors can significantly improve family planning interventions, suggesting that this approach has potential for success.

Where this research is happening

Baltimore, 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 2026-06-15 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.