Remote Pregnancy Research Study
At the University of Iowa’s Center for Disabilities and Development (CDD), we are doing research to learn more about how pregnancy, early childhood experiences, and genetic factors affect child development and behavior, including autism spectrum disorder.
Fast Facts
Currently Pregnant (Less Than 27 Weeks)
18-50 Years Old
Compensation Provided
Remote
Study Background
The University of Iowa’s Center for Disabilities and Development is researching how pregnancy, early childhood experiences, and genetic factors influence child development, with a focus on autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
You are invited to participate in a study that tracks your pregnancy and your child’s early development, through simple, at-home activities using a cell phone. You will complete short questionnaires, join an online interview, and videotape your baby’s play after birth. You will also be sent a kit to swab your baby’s mouth to collect cheek cells for genetic testing. The study will explore whether stress and early social experience lead to genetic changes associated with autism or other developmental conditions.
Help us make a difference in understanding and treating autism!
Study Background
The University of Iowa’s Center for Disabilities and Development is researching how pregnancy, early childhood experiences, and genetic factors influence child development, with a focus on autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
You are invited to participate in a study that tracks your pregnancy and your child’s early development, through simple, at-home activities using a cell phone. You will complete short questionnaires, join an online interview, and videotape your baby’s play after birth. You will also be sent a kit to swab your baby’s mouth to collect cheek cells for genetic testing. The study will explore whether stress and early social experience lead to genetic changes associated with autism or other developmental conditions.
Help us make a difference in understanding and treating autism!
Additional Information
This study aims to examine how stress in pregnancy and early-life social experiences may lead to genetic changes associated with social and communication difficulties in autism. Our goal is to better understand what factors might lead to autism in young children to support early intervention efforts.
You may qualify for a study if you meet the following criteria:
- 18-50 years old
- Currently pregnant in your 1st to 2nd trimester (less than 27 weeks)
- Able to speak and read English
- No history of severe mental illness during the past year, resulting in hospital admission
Individuals who are less than 27 weeks pregnant are invited to participate. You will use your cell phone to track your pregnancy and baby’s development until age 2, completing short questionnaires, and videotaping your baby’s play. All research activities can be completed at using your cell phone, and should only take a few minutes to complete. After your baby is born and at 2-3 years of age, you will be sent a kit to swab your child’s cheek, so that we can look at changes in genetic markers related to child development.
- Complete Online Consent: If eligible, you’ll start by filling out an online consent form.
- Monthly Activities: You will receive monthly texts or emails with a link to complete short questionnaires, upload photos/videos of your child, and share how you’re feeling. This should take no more than 30 minutes per month until your baby turns 3.
- Cheek Swab Kit: After your baby is born, you’ll receive a cheek swab kit in the mail to collect a sample for genetic testing.
- Next Phase: Depending on your child’s developmental screening tests, you may be invited to participate in the next phase of the study, which includes:
- A developmental assessment (online or in-person)
- Two more cheek swabs, 6 months apart
- A portable recording device to measure your child’s language experience
You will receive free developmental screenings for your child, and a video of your child’s changing facial expressions over time (see example here). If any developmental or behavioral concerns are identified, a free online developmental assessment will be arranged with a psychologist or developmental pediatrician. Families will also earn points to be entered into a 6-monthly gift card draw. Participants who enroll in the second phase will receive up to $120 via gift card.
There is no cost for you to participate in our research study.
