Writing and Breathing Interventions for Postpartum PTSD
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial explores two new methods to help women with PTSD symptoms after childbirth. One treatment, Written Exposure Therapy, involves writing about the childbirth experience. The other, Capnometry-Guided Breathing Intervention, uses guided breathing exercises with a device. Both aim to reduce stress and improve mental health compared to usual care. Women who delivered a baby in the last five days, especially those with a difficult delivery or a baby in the NICU, might be suitable candidates. As an unphased trial, this study provides a unique opportunity to explore innovative treatments for postpartum PTSD symptoms.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It's best to discuss this with the trial coordinators or your doctor.
Is there any evidence suggesting that this trial's treatments are likely to be safe?
Research shows that both Capnometry-Guided Breathing Intervention (CGRI) and Written Exposure Therapy (WET) are safe for people. Studies on CGRI have found it effective and well-tolerated by those with panic disorder and PTSD, with no reports of serious side effects, indicating a gentle treatment option.
For WET, research has shown it to be a dependable treatment for PTSD, even for those with other mental health issues. It is considered safe and easy to use, with no major negative effects reported. Both treatments aim to reduce stress and are generally well accepted by participants.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial's treatments?
Researchers are excited about these innovative interventions for postpartum PTSD because they offer unique, non-pharmacological approaches that differ from typical treatments like therapy and medication. The Written Exposure Therapy (WET) involves structured writing sessions that help new mothers process their childbirth experiences, potentially offering a more accessible and less resource-intensive form of therapy. Meanwhile, the Capnometry-Guided Breathing Intervention (CGRI) uses technology to guide breathing, helping mothers manage stress and anxiety through biofeedback, which could provide a practical and empowering tool for at-home use. These methods focus on personal empowerment and mental health support without relying on traditional medications, making them promising alternatives for new mothers dealing with PTSD.
What evidence suggests that this trial's treatments could be effective for postpartum PTSD?
Research has shown that both Capnometry-Guided Breathing (CGRI) and Written Exposure Therapy (WET), studied in this trial, can help reduce PTSD symptoms. Participants may receive CGRI, which aids those with PTSD and panic disorder by teaching controlled breathing to lower anxiety. A study with veterans found that CGRI improved their breathing and reduced symptoms. Alternatively, participants may receive WET, which has significantly lessened PTSD symptoms, with benefits lasting up to six months after treatment. Patients who tried WET reported a substantial drop in symptoms, making it a strong option for treating PTSD. Both methods offer early hope for those dealing with postpartum PTSD.12346
Who Is on the Research Team?
Pervez Sultan
Principal Investigator
Stanford University
Debra Kaysen
Principal Investigator
Stanford University
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for women over 18 who have given birth to a live infant within the past 5 days and are experiencing severe stress due to childbirth complications or their baby being in the NICU. Participants must show signs of PTSD, be able to consent, participate fully, and speak English.Inclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive either Written Exposure Therapy or Capnometry Guided Breathing Intervention
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Capnometry-Guided Breathing Intervention
- Written Exposure Therapy
Trial Overview
The study tests two early interventions for postpartum PTSD: Written Exposure Therapy (WET), where participants write about their traumatic experience, and Capnometry-Guided Breathing Intervention (CGRI), which uses breathing techniques monitored by capnometry.
How Is the Trial Designed?
3
Treatment groups
Experimental Treatment
Active Control
Participants will complete 5 writing sessions focused on their childbirth experience. One 50-minute session will be held in the hospital before discharge, followed by four 50-minute sessions by secure video once a week. Sessions are delivered by a trained study therapist under licensed clinician supervision.
Participants will complete one 45-minute in-hospital training session using the device, which includes a tablet and breathing sensor. They will then practice guided breathing at home twice daily for about 17 minutes each time for 4 weeks, with weekly phone check-ins from study staff.
Participants will follow their current standard of care.
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Stanford University
Lead Sponsor
University of Arkansas
Collaborator
National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH)
Collaborator
Citations
Early Support for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder After ...
The purpose of this study is to examine two early interventions, Written Exposure Therapy and Capnometry Guided Breathing, ...
Investigation of a Capnometry Guided Respiratory ...
Capnometry Guided Respiratory Intervention (CGRI) is a digital therapeutic effective in panic disorder that measures and displays end-tidal carbon dioxide ( ...
Writing and Breathing Interventions for Postpartum PTSD
The purpose of this study is to examine two early interventions, Written Exposure Therapy and Capnometry Guided Breathing, to reduce post-traumatic stress ...
Capnometry-Guided Respiratory Intervention in Veteran ...
The aim of this study was to examine patterns of symptom reduction in veterans with PTSD treated with a Capnometry-Guided Respiratory Intervention (CGRI).
A 1500 patient effectiveness study - PMC
This paper reports pre- and post-treatment self-reported symptom reduction, measures of respiratory rate and end-tidal carbon dioxide levels, ...
Early Intervention for Postpartum PTSD
This study will generate essential data to guide the development of a fully powered randomized controlled trial and support scalable, accessible early ...
Unbiased Results
We believe in providing patients with all the options.
Your Data Stays Your Data
We only share your information with the clinical trials you're trying to access.
Verified Trials Only
All of our trials are run by licensed doctors, researchers, and healthcare companies.