This study is being done to learn whether prolonged exposure therapy is effective, acceptable, and safe for pregnant participants who are living with PTSD symptoms. The results may help improve mental health care for individuals during pregnancy.

You may be eligible for this study if you meet the following criteria.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Ages 18+

• Participants less than 25 weeks pregnant

• Experiencing symptoms of PTSD (having nightmares, constantly on guard, feeling numb)

• No major or unstable psychiatric conditions that would interfere with study participation

• Able to attend study visits at the University of Vermont

Overall Duration

Participation will last about 12 weeks.

Screening phone call

• A member of the study team will call you
• They will ask questions about your health and pregnancy
• This helps confirm if the study is a good fit for you

Initial visit

• 1 visit lasting about 3 hours
• You will:
  
  • Meet with the research team
  • Answer questions about your health history
  • Complete surveys about stress, mood, and trauma symptoms
  • Take part in a psychological evaluation

Weekly therapy visits

• Up to 12 visits
• Each visit lasts about 60 minutes
• You will:
  
  • Meet one-on-one with a trained therapist
  • Talk about past experiences in a safe setting
  • Learn ways to manage PTSD symptoms

Follow-up visits

• Up to 3 visits
• You will:
  
  • Complete more surveys
  • Share how you have been feeling
  • Help researchers understand whether symptoms have changed

The study team can answer questions before each step.

Yes. Participants may receive up to $1,160 for taking part in the study.

There is no cost for you to participate in our research study.