NCT05767658 · University of Virginia
Support Via Online Social Networks to Promote Safe Infant Care Practices
(SUPERSONIC)
What this study is about
This study aims to improve adherence to American Academy of Pediatrics safe sleep (SS) recommendations and improve rates of initiation and duration of partial and exclusive breastfeeding (BF); and reduce Black/White disparities in these practices through the use of private Facebook groups providing a) evidence-based education through videos and other multi-media supporting best practices and b) an online community and social network of other pregnant WIC clients and new parents.
View original scientific description
This study aims to improve adherence to American Academy of Pediatrics safe sleep (SS) recommendations and improve rates of initiation and duration of partial and exclusive breastfeeding (BF); and reduce Black/White disparities in these practices through the use of private Facebook groups providing a) evidence-based education through videos and other multi-media supporting best practices and b) an online community and social network of other pregnant WIC clients and new parents.
Interventions
BEHAVIORAL
Safe Sleep
Participants will be part of a private Facebook group from approximately 32 weeks gestation to 6 months postpartum. The Facebook group will provide a) evidence-based education through videos and other multi-media supporting best practices for infant safe sleep and b) an online community and social network of other pregnant WIC clients and new parents.
BEHAVIORAL
Breastfeeding
Participants will be part of a private Facebook group from approximately 32 weeks gestation to 6 months postpartum. The Facebook group will provide a) evidence-based education through videos and other multi-media supporting best practices for breastfeeding and b) an online community and social network of other pregnant WIC clients and new parents.
BEHAVIORAL
Early Brain Development and Parent-Child Relationships
Participants will be part of a private Facebook group from approximately 32 weeks gestation to 6 months postpartum. The Facebook group will provide a) evidence-based education through videos and other multi-media supporting best practices for early brain development and parent-child interactions (control intervention) and b) an online community and social network of other pregnant WIC clients and new parents.
Primary outcome measures
Exclusive infant supine sleep position in the previous two weeks
Time frame: Between 2 and 6 months
An investigator-developed maternal survey will be used to assess infant's usual sleep position during the previous two weeks with categorical responses of back, stomach, side, and other, with the proportion of infants using exclusive supine sleep position as the primary outcome measure.
Infant sleep location (exclusive room sharing without bed sharing) in the previous two weeks
Time frame: Between 2 and 6 months
An investigator-developed maternal survey will be used to assess the infant's usual sleep location during the previous two weeks with categorical responses of room sharing without bed sharing, room sharing with bed sharing, no room sharing and no bed sharing, with the proportion of infants exclusively room sharing without bed sharing as the primary outcome measure.
Soft bedding use in the previous two weeks
Time frame: Between 2 and 6 months
An investigator-developed maternal survey will be used to assess soft bedding placed in and around the infant (while sleeping) during the previous two weeks with categorical responses of Yes or No.
Breastmilk feeding in the previous two weeks
Time frame: Between 2 and 6 months
An investigator-developed maternal survey will be used to assess whether the infant was breast fed during the previous two weeks with categorical responses of exclusively breast fed, partially breast fed, or not breast fed.
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Currently enrolled in WIC, or it not, then have either Medicaid or no health insurance
- Must be English speaking
- Must be pregnant and less than 30 weeks gestation
- Must live in the United States
- Must have regular access to Facebook and short message service (SMS) texting (mobile phone)
Exclusion criteria
- Not planning to live in same home as infant after birth.
- Prenatal diagnosis expected to impact on infant care practices in a manner not compatible with study goals, including contraindications to feeding any breastmilk or supine infant sleep positioning.
- Known or reported mental health or other issues that would preclude custody of the infant or being able to participate in the informed consent process.
- Meets the definition of a minor according to applicable state law.
- Participants who consent to participation in the study, must complete the Agile Onboarding process before they reach 30+0 weeks gestation.
- Currently or previously received a TodaysBaby educational program (randomized to a TodaysBaby program through either the SMARTER, or SUPERSONIC study), either in their current or a previous pregnancy.
Where
- Boston, Massachusetts
Collaborators
Boston University, Washington University School of Medicine, Boston Medical Center, University of Kentucky, National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities (NIMHD)
Related conditions & keywords
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Jan 12, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations