Postpartum Depression Research Study
Researchers at the Medical University of South Carolina are conducting a study on postpartum depression to evaluate an intensive, noninvasive treatment called SAINT.
Fast Facts
Gave Birth in The Last 6 Months & Experiencing Postpartum Depression
Can Commit to up to 10 Hours a Day For 5 Straight Days of Treatment
Compensation
Provided
Conducted in
Charleston, SC
Study Background
Postpartum depression (PPD) can be severe and difficult to treat for many new mothers.
Some individuals do not experience enough relief from standard treatments such as therapy or medication. Researchers at MUSC are studying a new, accelerated form of transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) called SAINT (Stanford Accelerated Intelligent Neuromodulation Therapy) to see if it can help improve symptoms of PPD more effectively and quickly.
This study involves a brief, intensive treatment course where participants receive SAINT sessions for five consecutive days, followed by ongoing clinical follow-up for up to six months. The goal is to determine whether SAINT can provide faster and longer-lasting improvement in postpartum depression symptoms, while also improving overall well-being and daily functioning.
Study Background
Postpartum depression (PPD) can be severe and difficult to treat for many new mothers.
Some individuals do not experience enough relief from standard treatments such as therapy or medication. Researchers at MUSC are studying a new, accelerated form of transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) called SAINT (Stanford Accelerated Intelligent Neuromodulation Therapy) to see if it can help improve symptoms of PPD more effectively and quickly.
This study involves a brief, intensive treatment course where participants receive SAINT sessions for five consecutive days, followed by ongoing clinical follow-up for up to six months. The goal is to determine whether SAINT can provide faster and longer-lasting improvement in postpartum depression symptoms, while also improving overall well-being and daily functioning.
Additional Information
This study is testing whether the SAINT neuromodulation system is effective in treating postpartum depression (PPD) in individuals who have not had adequate relief from previous treatments.
You may be eligible for this study if you meet the following criteria.
Inclusion Criteria:
- Gave birth in the last 6 months
- Experience postpartum depression (e.g., persistent sadness, loss of interest, or hopelessness)
- Can commit to up to 10 hours a day for 5 straight days of treatment
- Able to undergo MRI scan (e.g., no history of seizure, no metal in head, no claustrophobia)
- No substance use disorders
- No untreated sleep apnea
- No history of serious neurological disease
- Ages 18-45
Screening visit: You’ll complete questionnaires, interviews, and safety checks to confirm eligibility.
Baseline visit: Includes an MRI scan before treatment begins.
Treatment phase: Attend five consecutive days of SAINT treatment at MUSC. Each day lasts about 10 hours.
Follow-up visits: You’ll have periodic check-ins (up to 6 months) that may be done virtually to monitor progress and well-being.
Participants may receive up to $450 in reimbursement for their time and participation. Additional support for childcare, meals, and travel expenses is also available.
There is no cost for you to participate in our research study.
This work is supported by the Department of Defense.