Pregnancy Research Study
Researchers at the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC) are conducting a study on how stress and craving impact return to cannabis use in postpartum women. This fully virtual study is for pregnant women in their third trimester who have recently reduced their cannabis use.
Fast Facts
Use Cannabis Less Than Once a Month, & Before Pregnancy, Used it Weekly or More Often
Currently Pregnant Who Are 30-40 Weeks
Compensation
Provided
Conducted
Remotely
Study Background
Understanding how stress and cravings influence postpartum cannabis use can help improve care and support for new mothers.
Pregnancy and the postpartum period bring major life changes, and for individuals who use cannabis, this time can include challenging decisions about substance use. Researchers at MUSC are studying how daily stress, mood, and cravings relate to whether and when cannabis use may return after childbirth. This research will also look at hormone levels (progesterone) that may play a role in these changes.
By better understanding these patterns, this study hopes to shape future tools and treatments that support maternal mental health and healthy substance use behaviors.
Study Background
Understanding how stress and cravings influence postpartum cannabis use can help improve care and support for new mothers.
Pregnancy and the postpartum period bring major life changes, and for individuals who use cannabis, this time can include challenging decisions about substance use. Researchers at MUSC are studying how daily stress, mood, and cravings relate to whether and when cannabis use may return after childbirth. This research will also look at hormone levels (progesterone) that may play a role in these changes.
By better understanding these patterns, this study hopes to shape future tools and treatments that support maternal mental health and healthy substance use behaviors.
Additional Information
To explore how daily experiences, like stress and cravings, affect whether new mothers return to cannabis use postpartum. This research can help guide better interventions and support services for pregnant and postpartum individuals.
You may be eligible for this study if you meet the following criteria.
Inclusion Criteria:
- Ages 18-45
- Currently pregnant at 30-40 weeks
- Use cannabis less than once a month, and before pregnancy, used it weekly or more often
- Cannabis is primary substance of use
- Single birth pregnancy
Exclusion Criteria:
- Psychotic disorder
- Suicidal ideation
- Moderate-severe substance use disorder (other than cannabis)
- Planning on placing infant up for adoption
- Planning on using progesterone-based contraceptives postpartum for 6 months
During the third trimester: For 7 days, you’ll provide 4 saliva samples, complete a short daily diary, and rate stress, mood, sleep, and cravings via smartphone.
After delivery: You’ll resume daily smartphone ratings for 12 weeks. Each week, you’ll self-administer a saliva test for cannabis use.
At 1 and 3 months postpartum: You’ll repeat the 7-day saliva collection and complete online questionnaires.
- All activities are virtual and can be done from home.
Yes. Participants can receive up to $1,135 for completing all parts of the study. No travel is required, and everything is designed to be flexible and convenient for new moms.
There is no cost for you to participate in our research study.