Post-natal depression research study

The Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital is appealing to pregnant and new mothers to join a study to reduce Postnatal Depression and its effects.

Supported by the Royal College of Music (RCM), the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) study aims to understand the psychological wellbeing of pregnant women and new mothers, and the effect of their involvement in creative activities. The survey is part of a larger study investigating the impact of creative interventions on the symptoms of postnatal depression, and results will be used as the basis for research publications as well as to inform the provision of advice and support on mental wellbeing for new mothers.

Post-natal depression (PND) is thought to affect 12.9% of new mothers with at least 75,000 cases per year in the UK alone.

To be eligible for the study, women need to be 6-9 months pregnant or 0-9 months post birth. They will be required to complete a short online survey. By stating that the participant has heard about the survey from NNUH they can be entered into a prize draw to win Mothercare vouchers.

The study aims to recruit 1,000 women. Post-birth mothers will complete a one-off questionnaire.  However, women who complete the questionnaire whilst pregnant will be invited to complete three further  questionnaires shortly post-birth, three and  six months later to gather  data to analyse change across pregnancy  into post-birth.

Laura Donaldson, NNUH Research Midwife commented: “Many mothers suffer the effects of postnatal depression in silence and active research can help to identify the best treatment or prevention method.”

For further information please contact Laura Donaldson on 01603 289816.

If you would like to take part please go to the following links:

Pregnant women: www.surveymonkey.com/r/mothertobe

New mothers: www.surveymonkey.com/r/newmother

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