Understanding unplanned home births and their risks in the US
Epidemiology of prehospital obstetric conditions and out-of-hospital deliveries in the US
This study looks at unexpected births that happen outside of hospitals in the U.S. and how emergency medical services help in those situations, aiming to find ways to improve care for mothers and babies during emergencies.
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-10709893 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the occurrence and risks associated with unplanned out-of-hospital deliveries (OHD) in the United States, particularly focusing on the care provided by emergency medical services (EMS). By analyzing a vast national database of EMS patient care records, the study aims to identify the characteristics of mothers and newborns involved in these high-risk situations. The goal is to uncover gaps in current EMS training and guidelines, ultimately leading to improved care and safety for both mothers and infants during emergencies. The findings could inform future interventions to reduce complications and enhance maternal and child health.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include mothers who experience unplanned home births and their newborns, particularly those who may require emergency medical services.
Not a fit: Patients who have planned hospital births or those who do not experience any obstetric emergencies may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved emergency care protocols for mothers and newborns, potentially reducing risks of complications and fatalities during unplanned home births.
How similar studies have performed: While there is evidence from other countries regarding the risks associated with unplanned out-of-hospital deliveries, this research aims to fill significant knowledge gaps in the US context, making it a novel investigation.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Massachusetts General Hospital — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Cash, Rebecca E — Massachusetts General Hospital
- Study coordinator: Cash, Rebecca E
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.