eDoula App for Pregnancy

Overseen By Women's Health Research Unit Department of Ob/Gyn

Age: 18 - 65

Sex: Female

Trial Phase: Academic

Sponsor: Oregon Health and Science University

Disqualifiers: Planned cesarean, Pregnancy complications, others

No Placebo Group All trial participants will receive the active study treatment (no placebo)

Compensation: Varies

Number of Visits: Unknown

60 Participants Needed

What You Need to Know Before You Apply

What is the purpose of this trial?

This trial tests an app called eDoula, designed to provide pregnant patients with information and guidance. The researchers aim to determine if using the app improves labor experiences and satisfaction compared to those who do not use it. Participants will either receive routine care or use the eDoula app during their pregnancy. Individuals who are pregnant for the first time, expecting one baby, speak English, and can use a smartphone may be suitable candidates. As an unphased trial, this study offers a unique opportunity to contribute to innovative research that could enhance pregnancy experiences for many.

Do I need to stop my current medications to join the trial?

The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications.

What prior data suggests that the eDoula App is safe for use during pregnancy?

Research has shown that apps like eDoula are generally safe for users. These apps provide helpful information and guidance during pregnancy and after childbirth, offering reading materials and videos to prepare users for childbirth and the postpartum period.

The eDoula app specifically aims to enhance the pregnancy experience by providing information backed by research, ensuring reliability and trustworthiness. No reports of negative effects have emerged from using these apps, as they primarily offer information.

Although the eDoula app hasn't undergone the usual clinical trial process, its educational focus suggests it is well-received. It's important to note that using an app like eDoula doesn't involve medications or medical procedures, so the risk of physical harm is very low.

Overall, the eDoula app is considered a safe way to access useful pregnancy and postpartum information. ^{1 2 3 4 5}

Why are researchers excited about this trial?

Researchers are excited about the eDoula app because it offers a unique digital support system for pregnant individuals, setting it apart from traditional prenatal care options like in-person consultations and printed educational materials. This app provides on-demand access to personalized pregnancy guidance and resources, potentially enhancing the support network for expecting parents. By leveraging technology, the eDoula app aims to improve both convenience and accessibility, making it easier for users to get the information and assistance they need throughout their pregnancy journey.

What evidence suggests that the eDoula App is effective for pregnancy and postpartum care?

Research has shown that having a doula can greatly improve pregnancy outcomes. Studies have found that doulas can reduce the chance of cesarean births by 39% and lower the risk of early deliveries. In this trial, participants in the eDoula Intervention arm will access the eDoula app, which aims to offer these benefits digitally by providing educational content and support after childbirth. Virtual doula care has also demonstrated benefits for mental health and recognizing important signs of maternal health. By using the eDoula app, participants might experience similar positive effects during and after pregnancy. ^{1 4 6 7 8}

Who Is on the Research Team?

Fei Cai, MD

Principal Investigator

Oregon Health and Science University

Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?

This trial is for first-time pregnant individuals with a single baby, who speak English and own a smartphone or device that can download the eDoula app. They must have delivered at 36 weeks of gestation or later.

Inclusion Criteria

I have never given birth.

I speak English.

I am pregnant with one baby.

Timeline for a Trial Participant

Screening

Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial

2-4 weeks

Recruitment and Baseline

Participants are recruited and surveyed on their labor and satisfaction outcomes

19-28 weeks gestation

Intervention

Participants in the intervention arm use the eDoula app during pregnancy

From recruitment to delivery

Postpartum Follow-up

Participants complete surveys on labor satisfaction and postpartum guidance

7 days following delivery

What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?

Interventions

• eDoula App

Trial Overview The eDoula Feasibility and Acceptability study tests an app providing educational content and postpartum guidance based on due dates. Participants will use the app then complete surveys to assess its impact on their labor experience and satisfaction.

How Is the Trial Designed?

Group I: eDoula Intervention Experimental Treatment 1 Intervention

These participants will have access to the eDoula app during pregnancy.

Group II: Control Active Control 1 Intervention

These participants will receive routine pregnancy and delivery care.

Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?

Oregon Health and Science University

Lead Sponsor

Trials

1,024

Recruited

7,420,000+

Citations

1. withpower.com withpower.com/trial/phase-pregnancy-related-2025-aedb1

eDoula App for Pregnancy eDoula is an app that will give patients reading material and videos to watch based on their due date. It also provides helpful postpartum guidance.

2. jamanetwork.com jamanetwork.com/journals/jama-health-forum/fullarticle/2813864

Advancing Equity in Maternal Health With Virtual Doula Care Several systematic reviews have shown that doula support can reduce cesarean birth rates and premature deliveries and improve breastfeeding ...

3. pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11420262/

What Do Community Doulas Think About the Future of ... This study investigates the future of maternal healthcare in the US from the perspective of doulas and highlights emerging technology and other opportunities.

4. healthjournalism.org healthjournalism.org/blog/2024/11/could-doulas-improve-maternal-health-outcomes-in-the-u-s/

Could doulas improve maternal health outcomes in the U.S.? A comprehensive review of studies found that continuous support from a doula during labor reduced the likelihood of a cesarean birth by 39% and ...

5. deloitte.com deloitte.com/us/en/insights/industry/health-care/how-digital-tools-can-help-the-maternal-health-crisis.html

Maternal health inequities persist. Can digital tools be part ... Advancements like virtual doula care have been shown to educate patients on maternal warning signs, help manage mental health, provide emotional ...

6. edoula.com edoula.com/get-the-app/

The App eDoula is an evidence-based app that revolutionizes how families learn about, prepare and plan for their pregnancy, birth, and postpartum journey.

7. apps.apple.com apps.apple.com/us/app/doola-safer-pregnancy-choices/id6742061297

Doola: Safer Pregnancy Choices - App Store - Apple Navigate pregnancy with peace of mind. Scan food, drinks, and skincare products to understand their ingredients and make safer daily choices.

8. news.northeastern.edu news.northeastern.edu/2024/12/04/pregnancy-tracking-apps-research/

Are Pregnancy Tracking Apps Helpful or Hurtful? New Research These apps can help pregnant people track their fetus' growth and movement as well as guide them through the pregnancy. But is this enough?