Can a doula help pregnant abuse survivors? new trial aims to find out

NCT ID NCT07165860

Recruiting now Symptom relief Sponsor: University of Pittsburgh Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tests whether pairing pregnant survivors of intimate partner violence (IPV) with a trained doula can reduce abuse and coercion compared to standard advocacy. Researchers will enroll 250 participants in the Pittsburgh area and track experiences of physical, sexual, emotional, and financial abuse over time. The goal is to see if this community-based support improves safety and well-being during pregnancy.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: Doula support (trained birth companion)
What this could lead to: If it works, this could offer a new, community-based way to reduce harm and improve safety for pregnant people experiencing domestic violence.
What could go wrong: This is an early-stage behavioral study with 250 participants, so results may not apply broadly. The intervention relies on participant engagement and safety, which can be challenging.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

perinatal disease

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

DOMESTIC VIOLENCE PERINATAL PROBLEMS

Contacts and locations

Locations

Family Medicine Department
RECRUITING

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, 15260, United States
Magee Women's Hospital
NOT_YET_RECRUITING

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, 15213, United States
The Midwife Center
RECRUITING

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, 15222, United States

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