NCT06831968 · University of Virginia
Clinical Validation of a Predictive Test for Postpartum Depression
(PREVAIL)
What this study is about
The goal of this observational study is to develop a blood test that may be predictive of postpartum depression. This Blood test is experimental and not yet FDA approved. Participants will not receive the results of this blood test. Up to 500 pregnant women will be recruited for the study from 2 sites.
View original scientific description
The goal of this observational study is to develop a blood test that may be predictive of postpartum depression. This Blood test is investigational and not yet FDA approved. Participants will not receive the results of this blood test. Up to 500 pregnant women will be recruited for the study from 2 sites. Participants must be age 18 or above with a singleton pregnancy and able to provide written consent in English. The Objective of this Clinical Trial is to prospectively validate the Enlighten Device test by prospectively determining false/true positive and negative rates. Building off of this, an exploratory objective of this study is to examine clinical factors associated with false positive/negative rates. This project will address the following Aim: Aim 1: Prospective collection of true/false positive and negative PPD outcomes through 6 months postpartum. Primary Hypothesis H1a: 80% or greater of pregnant women who develop PPD by 3 months after delivery will be determined to be Biomarker Positive by the Enlighten Device in T3. Primary Hypothesis H1b: 10% or fewer of pregnant women who are determined to be Biomarker Negative by the Enlighten Device in T3 will develop PPD by 3 months after delivery. Exploratory Aim 1: Investigation of clinical factors that may be associated with false positive and false negative rates, such as: medication use, stressful life events, and sociocultural context. Participants will be screened during the second or third trimester and enrolled during the third trimester, before week 30 weeks of gestation. Participants may self- identify through study advertisements in participating clinics, social media outlets, and community outreach efforts. Enrolled participants will undergo blood collection during their 3rd trimester (\~27-30 weeks, a standard pregnancy-related blood collection timepoint) for completion of the Enlighten Device test, the blood-based epigenetic biomarker test. Participants will then be interviewed at 2 weeks, 6 weeks, 3 months, and 6 months postpartum for the development of depression symptoms. They'll also complete a multitude of other outcome measures at each of these visits.
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
- subject must be pregnant (singleton pregnancy)
- \<30 weeks' gestation, age 18 or above
- able to provide written consent in English
Exclusion criteria
- The study team and/or PI may exclude anyone deemed unsafe to participate in the protocol.
Where
- Charlottesville, Virginia
- Falls Church, Virginia
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 Dec 3, 2025 · Source of record for eligibility and locations