Using text messages to help pregnant women stay on HIV prevention medication

mWACh-PrEP: A SMS-based Support Intervention to Enhance PrEP Adherence during Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

NIH-funded research University of Washington · NIH-10873244

This study is looking to help pregnant and new moms in areas with high rates of HIV remember to take their prevention medication by sending them supportive text messages, making it easier for them to stay healthy.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Washington NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Seattle, United States)
Project IDNIH-10873244 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research aims to improve adherence to HIV prevention medication (PrEP) among pregnant and postpartum women in high HIV prevalence areas. By utilizing a two-way SMS communication platform, the study will send tailored messages to support women in taking their medication consistently. The approach is based on behavioral theories and has shown promise in a pilot study, where participants reported better adherence. The research will also evaluate the cost-effectiveness and acceptability of this intervention among patients and healthcare providers.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are HIV-negative pregnant or postpartum women in high HIV prevalence regions who are at risk for HIV.

Not a fit: Patients who are HIV-positive or not pregnant/postpartum may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly enhance the ability of pregnant women to adhere to HIV prevention strategies, reducing the risk of mother-to-child transmission.

How similar studies have performed: Previous pilot studies have shown that SMS-based interventions can improve medication adherence, indicating potential for success in this approach.

Where this research is happening

Seattle, 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.
Conditions Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome VirusAcquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome Virus
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.