Study Participant Resources
Support and Information
Here you’ll find helpful tools and information to guide you through participating in the MomGenes study. Whether you’re looking for answers about postpartum depression, the blood collection process, or need additional support, this page is designed to support your participation in the study.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is postpartum depression?
Postpartum depression (PPD) occurs in up to 10-15% of all births. That is 1 in 7 women. It typically emerges in the days or weeks after childbirth but may occur at any point after delivery. Symptoms of postpartum depression often last for more than 2 weeks. Depression after childbirth is a serious illness and can have significant and lasting impact on the new mom, infant, and family.
Who gets postpartum depression?
Any woman who has given birth is at risk for postpartum depression. Roughly 1 in 7 women may have clinical symptoms of depression or anxiety after childbirth. A prior history of major depression or postpartum depression further increases risk.
What are common symptoms of postpartum depression?
- Feeling sad, depressed, and/or crying a lot
- Intense anxiety
- Thoughts or obsessions that won’t go away
- Loss of interest in usual activities
- Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, or incompetence
- Fatigue, irritability, sleep disturbances
- Changes in appetite
- Poor concentration
- Feeling inadequate to cope with new infant
- Excessive worry about baby’s health
- Thoughts of harming yourself or your baby
What causes postpartum depression?
We do not yet know the specific cause of postpartum depression and that is why we are doing this study. Research to date shows that there are likely multiple contributing factors towards postpartum depression. These include your genes (genetic vulnerability), the hormonal changes associated with pregnancy and childbirth, and other biological and psychosocial factors.
Is there effective treatment for postpartum depression?
Yes, there are multiple forms of effective treatment! This can include both medications and psychotherapy. If you are suffering with symptoms, you should make sure to get help.
What is postpartum psychosis?
Postpartum psychosis is a rare but serious illness that can be life threatening. The symptoms include delusions (thoughts that are not based in reality), hallucinations (hearing or seeing things that aren’t there) or disorganized thinking. It is essential for women to get evaluation and treatment immediately if experiencing these symptoms.
What if I need help now?
If you are having serious symptoms or thinking about hurting yourself, please call 911 (US residents) or your local emergency number, go to your local hospital, or visit 988lifeline.org for more resources.
Blood Collection Video
Blood Collection FAQs
Why is blood collection important for the study?
Blood samples allow us to analyze genetic markers that could be linked to postpartum depression. Your contribution helps us better understand the biological factors involved and move closer to finding a cure.
Does it hurt to collect blood for the study?
The level of discomfort may vary between individuals, although it is intended to be virtually painless. Participants have reported lower levels of pain with the device we use compared to collecting blood with a finger stick or standard blood draw procedure.
Can I move while the blood is being collected?
It is recommended to keep your arm still and relaxed while the blood is being collected. For best results, relax your arm and limit movement until the device has finished collecting the sample, usually between 10 and 15 minutes.
How does the blood collection device work?
The device is placed on your upper arm, and with a simple push of a button, a gentle vacuum is created to draw a small blood sample from the capillaries in your skin. The process takes a few minutes and is designed to be painless.
What if I experience discomfort or bleeding after using the blood collection device?
Mild discomfort or a small amount of bleeding is normal and should resolve quickly. If you experience prolonged bleeding or significant discomfort, seek medical advice.
Can I reuse the blood collection device?
No, the device is designed for single use only. After collecting your blood sample, dispose of the device according to your local guidelines.
What if I have other questions about providing a blood sample?
If you have any questions or concerns about providing a blood sample, please contact us at momgenesfightppd@med.unc.edu. We can even call you to walk you through collection and answer any questions you have.