Blood test to predict postpartum depression in pregnant women

Clinical Validation of a Predictive Test for Postpartum Depression

University of Virginia · NCT06831968

This study is testing a blood test to see if it can predict postpartum depression in pregnant women during their third trimester.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment500 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexFemale
SponsorUniversity of Virginia (other)
Locations2 sites (Charlottesville, Virginia and 1 other locations)
Trial IDNCT06831968 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study aims to develop and validate a blood test that may predict postpartum depression (PPD) in pregnant women. Up to 500 participants will be recruited from the University of Virginia, focusing on those in their third trimester of pregnancy. The study will assess the accuracy of the test by determining the rates of true and false positives and negatives for PPD outcomes up to six months postpartum. Participants will not receive their individual test results, as the test is investigational and not yet FDA approved.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are pregnant women aged 18 or older with a singleton pregnancy who are less than 30 weeks' gestation.

Not a fit: Patients who are not pregnant or those with multiple pregnancies may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this test could help identify women at risk for postpartum depression, allowing for earlier intervention and support.

How similar studies have performed: While this approach is investigational, similar studies exploring predictive tests for postpartum depression have shown promise, but this specific test is novel.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* subject must be pregnant (singleton pregnancy)
* \<30 weeks' gestation, age 18 or above
* able to provide written consent in English

Exclusion Criteria:

* The study team and/or PI may exclude anyone deemed unsafe to participate in the protocol.

Where this trial is running

Charlottesville, Virginia and 1 other locations

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Postpartum Depression, Pregnancy, Predictive Test, Blood Test, Third Trimester

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.