iCARE online therapy for postpartum depression
Official title: Evaluating the Effectiveness of an Internet-based Therapy (iCARE) to Treat Symptoms of Postpartum Depression
Run by University of Southern Denmark · NCT07384273 · Data updated 2026-11-12
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
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | Women only |
| Enrollment | 352 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | University of Southern Denmark Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Odense) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | February 1, 2026 |
| Main results expected | August 1, 2028 |
| Study ends | August 1, 2028 |
| Registry record updated | February 5, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT07384273 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a 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.
✕Probably 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.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
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.
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 gone: 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.
Who can join: the full rules
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 it's running
-
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
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.