Postpartum Depression Research Study
Researchers at The University of Texas at Austin are conducting a study on postpartum depression to evaluate an investigational non-invasive treatment option called SAINT.
Fast Facts
Gave Birth in the last 12 months and experiencing Postpartum depression
Can commit to 5 consecutive days of up to 10 hours a day of treatment
Compensation
provided
Conducted in
Austin, TX
Study Background
Researchers at The University of Texas at Austin are conducting a study in women who have recently given birth to explore potential treatment options for postpartum depression (PPD). PPD is a serious condition that can affect mood, emotional processing, and brain activity, and some individuals do not experience adequate improvement with traditional treatments.
This study is evaluating an accelerated form of transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) called SAINT, an investigational non-invasive drug-free treatment option for women experiencing postpartum depression (PPD). PPD can be severe and challenging to treat, and some individuals do not experience sufficient improvement with traditional therapies such as medication or talk therapy.
The goal of this research is to determine whether TMS-SAINT can provide a safe, effective, and rapid alternative for women whose symptoms have not improved with standard treatments. By exploring this innovative approach, the study aims to offer hope for faster symptom relief and better overall outcomes. Ultimately, the findings may help expand treatment options, improve access to non-invasive therapies, and enhance the quality of life for mothers struggling with postpartum depression.
This therapy has not been cleared by the FDA for use in postpartum depression. The safety and effectiveness of SAINT for postpartum depression have not yet been established.
Study Background
Researchers at The University of Texas at Austin are conducting a study in women who have recently given birth to explore potential treatment options for postpartum depression (PPD). PPD is a serious condition that can affect mood, emotional processing, and brain activity, and some individuals do not experience adequate improvement with traditional treatments.
This study is evaluating an accelerated form of transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) called SAINT, an investigational non-invasive drug-free treatment option for women experiencing postpartum depression (PPD). PPD can be severe and challenging to treat, and some individuals do not experience sufficient improvement with traditional therapies such as medication or talk therapy.
The goal of this research is to determine whether TMS-SAINT can provide a safe, effective, and rapid alternative for women whose symptoms have not improved with standard treatments. By exploring this innovative approach, the study aims to offer hope for faster symptom relief and better overall outcomes. Ultimately, the findings may help expand treatment options, improve access to non-invasive therapies, and enhance the quality of life for mothers struggling with postpartum depression.
This therapy has not been cleared by the FDA for use in postpartum depression. The safety and effectiveness of SAINT for postpartum depression have not yet been established.
Additional Information
The study uses an accelerated form of transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), called SAINT, which targets specific brain regions involved in mood regulation. This study is testing whether the SAINT -TMS system is effective in treating postpartum depression (PPD) in individuals who have not had adequate relief from previous treatments.
You may be eligible for this study if you meet the following criteria.
Inclusion Criteria:
- Ages 18-45
- Gave birth in the last 12 months
- Experience postpartum depression (e.g., persistent sadness, loss of interest, or hopelessness)
- Can commit to up to 10 hours a day for 5 consecutive days of treatment
- Able to undergo MRI scan (e.g., no history of seizure, no metal in head, no claustrophobia)
- No substance use disorders
- No untreated sleep apnea
- No history of serious neurological disease
The entire study lasts approximately 6 months. Once enrolled, the study involves:
- Screening visit: Involves questionnaires, history taking, psychiatric assessments, and labs to assess eligibility.
- Baseline visit: MRI scan
- Treatment phase: Five consecutive days of SAINT treatment at Austin UT. Each day lasts about 10 hours.
- Follow-up visits: You’ll have periodic check-ins (up to 6 months) that may be done virtually to monitor progress and well-being.
Participants may receive up to $450 in reimbursement for their time and participation. Additional support for childcare, and meals is also available.
There is no cost for you to participate in our research study.
This work is supported by The Assistant Secretary of Defense for Health Affairs endorsed by the Department of Defense.