Determine the Clinical Effectiveness of Mobile CenteringPregnancy to Improve Maternal and Infant Health Outcomes of Marshallese in Arkansas

Launched by UNIVERSITY OF ARKANSAS · May 30, 2025

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is studying a new approach to prenatal care called Mobile CenteringPregnancy, specifically designed for Marshallese women living in Arkansas. The goal is to improve health outcomes for both mothers and their babies. Research shows that Marshallese women often face significant barriers to receiving regular prenatal care, which can lead to complications like preterm births and low birthweight infants. By providing group prenatal care through mobile health clinics, the trial aims to offer support and education in a way that is more accessible to the community.

To participate in the trial, women must be at least 18 years old, pregnant (around 12-14 weeks), and self-identify as Marshallese. Unfortunately, those with high-risk pregnancies or who are expecting multiple babies, among other criteria, cannot join. Participants can expect to receive prenatal care in a group setting, which has been shown to improve outcomes, including healthier birth weights and better breastfeeding rates. This trial not only seeks to enhance maternal and infant health but also aims to learn how to make this program sustainable for the future.

Gender

FEMALE

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • (1) women who self-report as Marshallese
• • (2) 18 years of age or older
• • (3) pregnant (12-14 weeks gestation; confirmed with ultrasound).
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • (1) conception with the use of fertility treatments
• • (2) high-risk pregnancy that requires a transfer to a high-risk clinic
• • (3) multiple gestations (i.e. pregnant with more than one infant)
• • (4) use of medications known to influence fetal growth (e.g., glucocorticoids, insulin, thyroid, hormones).