iCARE online therapy for postpartum depression
Evaluating the Effectiveness of an Internet-based Therapy (iCARE) to Treat Symptoms of Postpartum Depression
NA · University of Southern Denmark · NCT07384273
This tests whether iCARE, an online program combining cognitive behavioral and acceptance-based techniques, helps women within six months after childbirth who have postpartum depression.
Quick facts
| Phase | NA |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 352 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | Female |
| Sponsor | University of Southern Denmark (other) |
| Locations | 1 site (Odense) |
| Trial ID | NCT07384273 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This is a randomized comparison of an internet-delivered therapy program (iCARE) versus usual care for postpartum depression. Eligible participants are adults who gave birth within the past six months, have elevated EPDS scores, and can use the internet and Danish language materials. Participants are randomized to complete the self-guided iCARE modules at home or to receive treatment as usual, with symptom measures collected over follow-up to track changes in mood and functioning. The trial aims to determine whether the online format can provide an accessible, flexible alternative to in-person therapy while monitoring engagement and dropout.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are women aged 18 or older who gave birth within the last six months, have an EPDS score above 7, understand Danish, have internet access, and do not have active psychosis or substance dependence.
Not a fit: People who do not understand Danish, lack reliable internet access, have schizophrenia or other psychotic disorders, are in immediate need of psychiatric treatment, or have significant substance or alcohol abuse are unlikely to benefit from this program.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, iCARE could expand timely access to effective therapy at home and reduce depressive symptoms and functional impairment for new mothers.
How similar studies have performed: International trials of self-guided internet-based CBT have shown symptom reductions for depression but with variable engagement and higher dropout rates, so results in postpartum populations are promising but not yet definitive.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Given birth within 6 months * Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) score above 7 * ≥age 18 * Access to the internet Exclusion Criteria: * Do not understand Danish language, * Substance abuse or dependence * Alcohol abuse, defined by a weekly consumption of alcohol exceeding 10 units * A diagnosis of schizophrenia, other psychotic disorders or in immediate need of psychiatric treatment.
Where this trial is running
Odense
- Research Unit of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Department of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark — Odense, Denmark (RECRUITING)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Trine Munk-Olsen, PhD
- Email: tmun@sdu.dk
- Phone: +4524466297
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions: Postpartum Depression, Postpartum depression, Cognitive behavioural therapy, Internet-based therapy, Acceptance and commitment therapy, Randomised controlled trial