Doula Model of Care

Launched by UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA · Apr 3, 2025

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial, called the Doula Model of Care, is designed to see if partnering a birth worker, known as a doula, with the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania can enhance the experience and health outcomes for Black birthing people. The main focus is to find out if this partnership can reduce bias and build trust, which may help lower feelings of depression during and after pregnancy. Participants will be divided into two groups: one will receive special doula care, which includes two prenatal visits, continuous support during labor, and two postpartum visits, while the other group will receive standard care without the additional doula support.

To be eligible for this study, you must be Black, between the ages of 16 and 55, currently pregnant in your second trimester, and planning to deliver at HUP. It's important that you can read and understand English and are willing to sign a consent form to join the study. The trial is not yet recruiting participants, but if you choose to participate, you will be followed for six weeks after giving birth to see how the support affects your mental health and overall experience.

Gender

FEMALE

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Pregnant patients who self-identify (as seen on Chart) as Black
• • Ages 16-55
• • Currently pregnant and in second trimester (gestational age between 13-30 weeks)
• • Plan to deliver at HUP
• • Patients must be able to read and understand English
• • Participants must be willing and able to sign the informed consent form
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Unable to provide written consent by being unable to read or sign informed consent.
• • PI Discretion