Using mobile health to prevent postpartum depression
Ecological Momentary Assessment Combined mHealth-based Psychosocial Intervention to Prevent Postpartum Depression in Pregnant Women: a Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial
This study is testing a new mobile health program that combines counseling and support to see if it can help pregnant women at risk of postpartum depression feel better after giving birth.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 60 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | Female |
| Sponsor | The University of Hong Kong Academic / other |
| Locations | 2 sites (Hong Kong, Pokfulam and 1 other locations) |
| Trial ID | NCT06777563 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study aims to develop and assess a proactive intervention model that combines brief psychological counselling, Ecological Momentary Assessment (EMA), and mobile health (mHealth) support to prevent postpartum depression (PPD) in pregnant women. Participants will be pregnant women between 20 and 28 weeks of gestation with a score indicating potential distress. The study will involve a three-arm randomized controlled trial with follow-ups at 2, 4, 6, and 8 weeks postpartum to evaluate the effectiveness of the intervention compared to control groups. Data will be collected through surveys and semi-structured interviews to understand participants' experiences with the intervention.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are pregnant women in their 20 to 28 weeks of gestation who are experiencing potential distress symptoms.
Not a fit: Patients currently undergoing psychiatric or psychological treatment may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this intervention could significantly reduce the incidence of postpartum depression among new mothers.
How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promise in using mobile health interventions for mental health support, suggesting potential success for this approach.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: 1. Pregnant women who are in their 20 to 28 weeks of gestation, 2. Receiving regular antenatal care service in Hong Kong, 3. Had a total score ≥7 in EPDS-10 (suggesting potential distress symptoms), 4. Able to read and understand Chinese and use an instant messaging app weekly Exclusion Criteria: 1\) Pregnant women who are undergoing psychiatric/psychological treatment.
Where this trial is running
Hong Kong, Pokfulam and 1 other locations
- School of Nursing, The University of Hong Kong — Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong (Recruiting)
- The Queen Mary Hospital — Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Shengzhi Zhao, PhD
- Email: lubabezz@connect.hku.hk
- Phone: +852 6561 4500
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.