Understanding pregnancy outcomes in Indigenous American women in the Midwest

Midwest Birth Outcomes and American Indian Pregnancy: Associations With Historical Trauma and Psychosocial Stress

This study looks at how stress and past trauma affect pregnancy outcomes for Indigenous American women in the Midwest to help improve their health and reduce issues like preterm births and infant mortality.

Quick facts

• Study type: Observational
• Enrollment: 80 (estimated)
• Ages: 18 Years and up
• Sex: Female
• Sponsor: Sanford Health (Academic / other)
• Locations: 2 sites (Fargo, North Dakota and 1 other locations)
• Trial ID: NCT06008561 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study focuses on the pregnancy experiences of Indigenous American women in the Midwest, particularly examining how historical trauma and stress impact adverse pregnancy outcomes. By collecting data on the women's experiences with trauma, stress, and physiological responses, the study aims to uncover the biological mechanisms that contribute to high rates of infant mortality and preterm births in this population. The findings could lead to targeted interventions to address these health disparities and improve perinatal health outcomes for Indigenous American women.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are Indigenous American women who are at least 18 years old and less than 26 weeks pregnant with a healthy single baby.

Not a fit: Patients who have undergone assistive reproductive technology or have a history of cardiac and endocrine disease may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide insights that lead to improved interventions and support for Indigenous American women during pregnancy, ultimately reducing adverse outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: While there is limited research specifically addressing this population, studies focusing on psychosocial stressors and pregnancy outcomes have shown promise in other contexts, indicating potential for success in this novel approach.

Eligibility criteria

Inclusion Criteria:

* At least 18 years old
* Less than 26 weeks
* Healthy single baby pregnancy
* Indigenous American

Exclusion Criteria:

* Assistive reproductive technology (in-vitro fertilization)
* Have a history of cardiac and endocrine disease

Where this trial is running

Fargo, North Dakota and 1 other locations

• Sanford Health — Fargo, North Dakota, United States (Recruiting)
• Sanford Health — Sioux Falls, South Dakota, United States (Recruiting)

Study contacts

• Principal investigator: Anna M Strahm, PhD — Sanford Health
• Study coordinator: Grace Biermann, MPH

Conditions Pregnancy