Pregnancy Research Study
Researchers at San Diego State University are working to understand how a prenatal yoga app can support maternal health.
Fast Facts
Between 13-28 Weeks Pregnant With Your First Child
Identify as Black or African American
Compensation Provided
Conducted in San Diego, CA
Study Background
Researchers at San Diego State University are conducting a study for African American/Black pregnant women to explore whether a prenatal yoga app is effective and useful.
The Mindful Maternity study aims to reduce disparities in maternal mental health and birth outcomes by examining how prenatal yoga can support well-being during pregnancy. Participants will use a prenatal yoga app for 12 weeks, practice yoga at home, and wear a Garmin Vivosmart 5 watch to track their activity and heart rate. Researchers hope this study will provide insights into how digital health tools can improve pregnancy experiences and outcomes.
Study Background
Researchers at San Diego State University are conducting a study for African American/Black pregnant women to explore whether a prenatal yoga app is effective and useful.
The Mindful Maternity study aims to reduce disparities in maternal mental health and birth outcomes by examining how prenatal yoga can support well-being during pregnancy. Participants will use a prenatal yoga app for 12 weeks, practice yoga at home, and wear a Garmin Vivosmart 5 watch to track their activity and heart rate. Researchers hope this study will provide insights into how digital health tools can improve pregnancy experiences and outcomes.
Additional Information
You may qualify for this study if you meet the following criteria.
Inclusion Criteria:
- Between 13-28 weeks pregnant with your first child
- Identify as Black or African American
- Pregnant with only one baby
- Reside in San Diego county
- Do not regularly participate in yoga (<60 min/month for past 6 months)
- Willing to download and use 3 mobile apps for the duration of the study
- No severe psychiatric disorder or substance abuse
- Do not have a high-risk pregnancy
- No physical activity restrictions from healthcare provider
- Ages 18-46
Eligible participants will first complete an electronic survey to determine if they qualify. If eligible, they will schedule a virtual enrollment appointment to review the consent form and decide whether to participate. Once enrolled, participants will meet with the research team in person at a public location near their residence—such as a coffee shop—to receive study materials, including a free yoga mat and a Garmin Vivosmart 5 watch. Researchers will also assist with downloading the DownDog prenatal yoga app onto their mobile device.
After setup, participants will practice prenatal yoga from the comfort of their home, aiming for at least 20 minutes, three days a week, over 12 weeks. Throughout the study, participants may experience improved well-being and a healthier pregnancy by staying active. Their participation will also help researchers understand whether prenatal yoga apps can benefit African American/Black pregnant women. This study takes place in San Diego County.
Participants can receive compensation for completing all study activities. In addition to monetary compensation, all participants will receive a free yoga mat, a Garmin Vivosmart 5 watch, and a free 12-week membership to the DownDog prenatal yoga app.
Participants will need to attend one in-person meeting at a local coffee shop to pick up study materials. While transportation is not provided, the research team will arrange to meet at a location convenient for the participant. After enrollment, all study activities, including prenatal yoga, can be completed from home.
There is no cost for you to participate in our research study.