NCT04821544 · University of Idaho
Maternal Stress on Human Milk and Infant Outcomes
What this study is about
The overarching purpose of this study is to determine if a modified 8-week mindfulness-based intervention (with a focus on self-compassion; MBSC) or 8 weeks of 2000 IU vitamin D supplementation will reduce stress and increase self-compassion in mothers of preterm infants and beneficially modify the human milk produced, and subsequently improve infant health.
View original scientific description
The overarching purpose of this study is to determine if a modified 8-week mindfulness-based intervention (with a focus on self-compassion; MBSC) or 8 weeks of 2000 IU vitamin D supplementation will reduce stress and increase self-compassion in mothers of preterm infants and beneficially modify the human milk produced, and subsequently improve infant health.
Interventions
BEHAVIORAL
Mindfulness-based intervention (with a focus on self-compassion; MBSC)
8-week MBSC intervention with a focus on increasing self-compassion
DIETARY_SUPPLEMENT
Vitamin D
Vitamin D at 2,000 IU/day for 8 weeks.
Primary outcome measures
Maternal Stress - Biomarker Change
Time frame: Baseline to 4 and 8 weeks
Salivary cortisol - Change from Baseline cortisol to 4 and 8 weeks
Maternal Stress - Psychometric Measure Change
Time frame: Baseline to 4 and 8 weeks
Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) - Change from Baseline PSS to 4 and 8 weeks The Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) is validated and the most widely used instrument to measure perception of stress. The PSS includes 14 questions inquiring about feelings and thoughts during the past month expressed through frequency. The PSS will be used pre-intervention, post-intervention (8 weeks), and at the mid-point of the intervention (4 weeks). The scale for each question ranges from 0-4. The PSS measures how often the responder found life to be unpredictable, uncontrollable, and overloaded. Higher score indicates higher perceived stress. The total score ranges between 0-56.
Maternal Self-compassion - Biomarker Change
Time frame: Baseline to 4 and 8 weeks
Salivary oxytocin - Change from Baseline oxytocin to 4 and 8 weeks
Maternal Self-compassion - Psychometric Measure Change
Time frame: Baseline to 4 and 8 weeks
Self-Compassion Scale-Short Form (SCS-SF) - Change from Baseline SCS-SF to 4 and 8 weeks The Self-Compassion Scale-Short Form (SCS-SF)19 is a shortened and highly correlated (r ≥ 0.97) scale (12 items) from the original 26-item SCS. The SCS-SF measures six key components of self-compassion using a scale that ranges from 1-5: self-kindness, self-judgement, common humanity, isolation, mindfulness, and over-identification. Self-compassion is associated with psychological well-being and is therefore often measured alongside stress and anxiety. High score indicates higher self-compassion. The total score ranges between 0-60.
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
- Mothers of newborn infants at Kootenai Health NICU and the Palouse region
Where
- Coeur d'Alene, Idaho
Collaborators
Oregon State University, National Institute of General Medical Sciences (NIGMS), Kootenai Health
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 May 18, 2025 · Source of record for eligibility and locations