Evaluating screening tools for mental health in pregnant and postpartum women

Diagnostic Accuracy of the Stepped Screening Protocol and Its Screening Tools for Depression, Anxiety Disorders, Obsessive-compulsive Disorders and Posttraumatic Disorders in the Perinatal Period.

Observational University Hospital, Ghent · NCT05961306

This study is trying to see if certain screening tools can help find mental health issues in pregnant and new moms so they can get the right support.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment1800 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexFemale
SponsorUniversity Hospital, Ghent Academic / other
Locations2 sites (Ghent, Oost-Vlaanderen and 1 other locations)
Trial IDNCT05961306 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study aims to assess the diagnostic accuracy of a stepped screening protocol and its associated questionnaires for identifying mental health issues in women during the perinatal period. It focuses on conditions such as major depressive episodes, anxiety disorders, PTSD, and OCD, which often go undetected. The study will analyze the effectiveness of tools like the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale and the Whooley questions in accurately identifying women at risk for these mental health challenges. By determining the sensitivity of these screening methods, the research seeks to improve referral processes for appropriate care.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are Dutch-speaking women aged 18 or older who are either in the antenatal period (20-24 weeks of pregnancy) or in the postnatal period (6 to 10 weeks after birth).

Not a fit: Patients who are under 18 years old, non-Dutch speaking, or outside the specified antenatal or postnatal periods will not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved detection and treatment of mental health issues in pregnant and postpartum women, enhancing their well-being and that of their families.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results with similar screening approaches, indicating potential for success in this novel application.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* 18 years or older, antenatal period (20-24 th week of pregnancy) or postnatal period (6 to 10 weeks after birth) and Dutch-speaking.

Exclusion Criteria:

* \<18 years, non-Dutch speaking and outside the above mentioned period.

Where this trial is running

Ghent, Oost-Vlaanderen 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.
Conditions DepressiveEpisode, MajorDepression, PostpartumAnxiety DisordersObsessive-Compulsive DisorderPosttraumatic Stress Disorderdiagnostic accuracy
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.