Improving Outcomes for Early Postpartum Mothers in Outpatient MOUD Treatment

Launched by UNIVERSITY OF ARKANSAS · Jul 8, 2025

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is focused on helping new mothers who are being treated for opioid use disorder (OUD) after giving birth. Opioid use disorder means struggling with the use of certain pain medications or drugs like heroin. The study aims to better understand the challenges these women face during the first year after their baby is born, especially since drug overdose is a leading cause of death at this time. Many women start medication treatment during pregnancy, but more than half stop treatment within six months after childbirth due to stress, mental health difficulties, parenting challenges, and feelings like guilt or shame. The study will work with the community to learn what support new mothers need most and to improve a parenting program that helps women stay in treatment and recover successfully.

Women who are 18 years or older, speak English, and are currently receiving medication treatment for opioid use disorder outside of a hospital (in an outpatient clinic) may be eligible to join. Participants must be between 28 weeks pregnant and up to 12 months after giving birth. Those who join can expect to share their experiences and needs as new parents, helping researchers adapt support programs to better fit their unique situations. This study is currently not recruiting, but it hopes to develop helpful resources that make it easier for mothers to continue their treatment and care for their babies during this important time.

Gender

FEMALE

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • 18 years or older
• • Understand and speak English
• • Able to give informed consent
• • Receiving medications for opioid use disorder in the outpatient clinical setting
• • Between 28 weeks gestation and up to 12 months postpartum
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Unwilling to consent
• • Before 28 weeks gestation and beyond 12 months postpartum at enrollment