First Time Mother Research Study
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health are conducting a study on microplastics exposure in first-time mothers and their infants to better understand potential impacts on early development.
Fast Facts
Infant is Exclusively Breastfed
(no formula supplementation)
Pregnant With First Child or up to 3 Months Postpartum (+/- 2 weeks)
Compensation
Provided
Conducted in
Baltimore City and County
Study Background
Microplastics may affect infant growth and development, and researchers are looking for answers.
The DIMPLE Study (Developmental Impacts of MicroPLastics Exposure in Early Life) is a pilot research project focused on how micro- and nanoplastics (MNPs) accumulate in first-time mothers and their breastfed infants. These tiny plastic particles are found in food, water, air, and everyday household products and may increase the risk of chronic diseases by disrupting metabolism and causing inflammation.
Researchers aim to enroll 20 mother-infant pairs from Baltimore City and County. The study explores how these particles transfer through breast milk, how lifestyle and environment affect exposure levels, and what impact MNPs may have on infant development. This pilot will help refine methods and tools for a larger NIH-funded study.
Study Background
Microplastics may affect infant growth and development, and researchers are looking for answers.
The DIMPLE Study (Developmental Impacts of MicroPLastics Exposure in Early Life) is a pilot research project focused on how micro- and nanoplastics (MNPs) accumulate in first-time mothers and their breastfed infants. These tiny plastic particles are found in food, water, air, and everyday household products and may increase the risk of chronic diseases by disrupting metabolism and causing inflammation.
Researchers aim to enroll 20 mother-infant pairs from Baltimore City and County. The study explores how these particles transfer through breast milk, how lifestyle and environment affect exposure levels, and what impact MNPs may have on infant development. This pilot will help refine methods and tools for a larger NIH-funded study.
Additional Information
This study is being done to better understand how microplastics enter the bodies of first-time mothers and infants, how they may affect infant health and development, and to test methods for plastic-free sample collection.
You may be eligible for this study if you meet the following criteria.
Inclusion Criteria:
- Pregnant with first child or up to 3 months postpartum (+/- 2 weeks)
- Infant is exclusively breastfed (no formula supplementation)
- Live in Baltimore, MD or Baltimore County
- Ages 18+
- No significant maternal or infant health conditions (e.g., diabetes, autoimmune disease, neurological disorders)
- No smoking, drug use (including marijuana), or alcohol abuse
- Have not used antibiotics during or after pregnancy or given medications to your infant via a plastic syringe
Complete a virtual consent process with the study team.
Receive a plastic-free study kit delivered to your home, including a silicone breast pump, cloth diapers, and other supplies.
Complete questionnaires online and two dietary recalls over the phone with a dietician.
Collect breast milk, maternal stool, and infant stool samples using the provided materials.
Attend a single in-person clinical visit (approximately 1.5 hours) at the Johns Hopkins Pediatric Clinical Research Unit. This visit will include:
A maternal fasting blood draw
Infant feeding- to assess milk intake
Infant neurodevelopmental screening
Measurements of maternal and infant height, weight, and other physical indicators
Access to a private, family-friendly space for breastfeeding and diaper changes
Participants will receive up to $200 for participation. Parking during study visits will be validated.
There is no cost for you to participate in our research study.