Brain Influences on growth at Birth Study (BIBS)
Researchers at the University of Washington are studying how the baby brain and nutrition contribute to weight gain and growth early in life.
Fast Facts
Currently Pregnant or Baby 1-4 Weeks Old
Diagnosed With Gestational Diabetes During Pregnancy
Compensation
Provided
Conducted in
Seattle, WA
Study Background
We want to learn how the baby brain and nutrition contribute to growth in the first six months of life.
Babies grow very quickly during their first months of life and some experience rapid weight gain. This can sometimes increase health risks later in life. By studying babies born to mothers that had gestational diabetes during pregnancy, we hope to better understand how early brain development and nutrition are related to growth patterns.
Study activities involve body measurements and one MRI for the baby, and questionnaires for parents. At six months, if able and willing, we will collect a small sample of breast milk.
Study Background
We want to learn how the baby brain and nutrition contribute to growth in the first six months of life.
Babies grow very quickly during their first months of life and some experience rapid weight gain. This can sometimes increase health risks later in life. By studying babies born to mothers that had gestational diabetes during pregnancy, we hope to better understand how early brain development and nutrition are related to growth patterns.
Study activities involve body measurements and one MRI for the baby, and questionnaires for parents. At six months, if able and willing, we will collect a small sample of breast milk.
Additional Information
We are studying how a baby’s brain and nutrition affect early growth and weight gain.
You and your baby may be eligible for this study if you meet the following criteria.
Inclusion Criteria:
- Currently pregnant or have an infant between 1-4 weeks old
- Diagnosed with gestational diabetes during pregnancy
Exclusion Criteria:
- Twin or multiple pregnancies
- History of bariatric surgery
- Current use of weight-loss medications or other medications known to alter appetite (e.g., oral steroids, atypical anti-psychotics)
- Current use of medications by the neonate (e.g. glucocorticoids, anti-epileptics)
Participation lasts about 6 months and involves 3 study visits:
Neonatal MRI visit (in-person, during baby’s first month): Lasts about 2.5h. Baby will have body measurements and one brain MRI. Parent will complete questionnaires.
3-month follow-up (remote): Lasts about 15 minutes. Parent completes a short questionnaire online.
6-month follow-up (in-person): Lasts about 45 minutes. Baby will have body measurements again. If baby is still being fed human milk, we will collect a small sample of human milk. Parent will complete questionnaires.
Participants can earn up to $200 in compensation for completion of this study. Parking is provided for in-person visits at UW Medical Center Montlake.
There is no cost for you to participate in our research study.