Virtual Pregnancy & Buprenorphine Research Study
Researchers are conducting a study to evaluate how effective a behavioral therapy and mobile application are in supporting pregnant and postpartum individuals with opioid use disorder who are prescribed buprenorphine (Suboxone, Subutex, or Zubsolv).
Fast Facts
Ages 18-45 & Up To 33 Weeks Pregnant
Have a Prescription For Buprenorphine
Compensation
Provided
Conducted
Virtually
Study Background
Supporting Pregnant and Postpartum Individuals with Opioid Use Disorder Through Technology-Enhanced Treatment
Opioid use disorder (OUD) during pregnancy and the postpartum period poses serious health risks for both parent and infant. Buprenorphine is an effective, evidence-based medication for managing OUD, yet many individuals struggle to stay engaged in treatment, particularly after childbirth. Research shows that the postpartum period is a time of heightened vulnerability, with increased risk for treatment discontinuation and opioid-involved overdose. Addressing these challenges is critical to improving outcomes for both maternal and infant health.
This study aims to evaluate a technology-enhanced intervention that combines a brief behavioral therapy protocol with a mobile application. The intervention is designed to improve medication adherence and treatment retention among pregnant and postpartum individuals prescribed buprenorphine. By offering structured support during pregnancy and continuing into the postpartum period, the study seeks to understand whether this approach can enhance treatment engagement and reduce overdose risk. Findings from this research could inform future efforts to integrate digital tools and therapy into routine care for individuals managing OUD during and after pregnancy.
Study Background
Supporting Pregnant and Postpartum Individuals with Opioid Use Disorder Through Technology-Enhanced Treatment
Opioid use disorder (OUD) during pregnancy and the postpartum period poses serious health risks for both parent and infant. Buprenorphine is an effective, evidence-based medication for managing OUD, yet many individuals struggle to stay engaged in treatment, particularly after childbirth. Research shows that the postpartum period is a time of heightened vulnerability, with increased risk for treatment discontinuation and opioid-involved overdose. Addressing these challenges is critical to improving outcomes for both maternal and infant health.
This study aims to evaluate a technology-enhanced intervention that combines a brief behavioral therapy protocol with a mobile application. The intervention is designed to improve medication adherence and treatment retention among pregnant and postpartum individuals prescribed buprenorphine. By offering structured support during pregnancy and continuing into the postpartum period, the study seeks to understand whether this approach can enhance treatment engagement and reduce overdose risk. Findings from this research could inform future efforts to integrate digital tools and therapy into routine care for individuals managing OUD during and after pregnancy.
Additional Information
This study is being done to find out whether a technology-enhanced intervention—combining brief behavioral therapy and a mobile application—can improve treatment outcomes for pregnant and postpartum individuals with opioid use disorder (OUD) who are prescribed buprenorphine.
You may be eligible for this study if you meet the following criteria.
Inclusion Criteria:
- Ages 18-45
- Up to 33 weeks pregnant
- Have a prescription for buprenorphine (Suboxone, Subutex, Zubsolv)
- Current OUD or history of OUD within the past 3 years
- Comfortable reading and writing in English
- Able to provide informed consent
Exclusion Criteria
- Carrying multiples
- Having a high-risk pregnancy
- Incarcerated/pending incarceration
- Current psychotic symptoms and/or active suicidal intent
If you participate in this study, here’s what you can expect:
Consent & Screening (Virtual, ~40–60 mins):
Sign a consent form.
Share contact info and release form for medical records.
Answer health and mental health questions.
Complete a brief physical readiness check (e.g., marching in place).
Confirm your buprenorphine prescription through a secure database.
Set Up (5–10 mins):
Download a mobile app (phone/WiFi provided if needed).
Schedule your first therapy appointment.
Therapy Sessions (Virtual):
4 sessions during pregnancy (every 2 weeks, 60 mins each).
3 sessions after childbirth (monthly, 30 mins each).
Learn skills to manage stress, improve sleep, and stay on medication.
Use of Mobile App (Ongoing):
Practice therapy skills.
Log your medication use.
Monthly Check-ins (~5 mins):
Count your buprenorphine pills or films with a researcher via video.
Follow-up Surveys:
Complete 2 additional surveys at 1 and 3 months postpartum (20–30 mins each).
In return for your time and effort, you will be paid $30.00 for completing the first survey, $40.00 for completing the second survey, and $50.00 for completing the third survey. Additionally, you will be paid $15.00 for each completed medication count; there will be a total of 6 medication counts throughout the duration of the study. The total possible payment is $210.00 over the course of the study.
There is no cost for you to participate in our research study.