Pregnancy and Child Development Research Study
Researchers at the University of Wisconsin–Madison are conducting a study with pregnant individuals to better understand how the brain and child development are influenced by biological, social, and environmental factors.
Fast Facts
Individuals who are in their second or third trimester of pregnancy
18+
Years old
Compensation
provided up to $1,510
Conducted in
Wisconsin
Study Background
Researchers at the University of Wisconsin–Madison are conducting a study with pregnant individuals to better understand how the brain and child development are influenced by experiences during pregnancy.
Pregnancy is an important time for both parents and their developing babies. Experiences during pregnancy, such as health, stress, nutrition, and environmental influences, may affect how a child’s brain and body grow. Researchers at the University of Wisconsin–Madison are conducting the Healthy Brain and Child Development (HBCD) Study to learn how biological, social, and environmental factors during pregnancy and early childhood contribute to brain development and overall well-being.
By studying these factors, researchers hope to gain a clearer understanding of how early experiences shape learning, emotions, and health throughout life. The ultimate goal of this study is to identify ways to better support families, promote healthy development, and improve outcomes for children as they grow. Eventually, the results from this research may help create new approaches to fostering healthy futures for generations to come.
Study Background
Researchers at the University of Wisconsin–Madison are conducting a study with pregnant individuals to better understand how the brain and child development are influenced by experiences during pregnancy.
Pregnancy is an important time for both parents and their developing babies. Experiences during pregnancy, such as health, stress, nutrition, and environmental influences, may affect how a child’s brain and body grow. Researchers at the University of Wisconsin–Madison are conducting the Healthy Brain and Child Development (HBCD) Study to learn how biological, social, and environmental factors during pregnancy and early childhood contribute to brain development and overall well-being.
By studying these factors, researchers hope to gain a clearer understanding of how early experiences shape learning, emotions, and health throughout life. The ultimate goal of this study is to identify ways to better support families, promote healthy development, and improve outcomes for children as they grow. Eventually, the results from this research may help create new approaches to fostering healthy futures for generations to come.
Additional Information
In this research study, we are trying to understand how the brain develops during pregnancy and early childhood. We aim to learn how biological, social, and environmental factors during pregnancy influence the developing brain and overall health of both parent and child. We are especially interested in how factors such as stress, nutrition, and daily experiences relate to brain growth, emotional well-being, and development over time.
To study this, we collect information through surveys, interviews, biological samples, and brain imaging. These measures help us explore how early experiences shape brain structure and function, as well as social, emotional, and cognitive development. By studying families across different backgrounds, we hope to discover new ways to promote healthy brain development and support families through pregnancy and early childhood.
You may be eligible for this study if you meet the following criteria.
Inclusion Criteria:
- 18+ years old
- Currently pregnant
- Speak English or Spanish
- Planning on being one of the primary caregivers for your baby
- Planning on staying in the area after your child is born
- Able to provide informed consent
The Healthy Brain and Child Development (HBCD) study is a nationwide, long-term research project that follows families and their children from pregnancy through early childhood. Participation will involve both in-person visits and activities you can do from home.
In the lab / In-person visits:
- Provide samples, such as blood and saliva
- Participate in behavioral assessments
- Wear activity and/or heart rate trackers for brief periods of time
- Undergo safe, non-invasive methods that provide pictures of your child’s brain and measure the brain activity of your child
From home:
- Between in-person visits, you will fill out surveys online about your experiences, your health, and your child’s development.
- These surveys are short and can be completed on your phone or computer
As a participant, you may receive up to $1,510 for completing all study visits and activities. Compensation is provided across several study visits, beginning during pregnancy and continuing after your baby is born. Participants can receive up to $100 for the prenatal visit (Visit 1), $180 for Visit 2, $300 for Visit 3, $360 for Visit 4, $50 for Visit 5, $420 for Visit 6, $50 for Visit 7, and $50 for Visit 7a.
Transportation support, including taxi or Lyft rides, can be provided to help participants attend study visits.
There is no cost for you to participate in our research study.