Early Intervention for Postpartum PTSD: Comparing Written Exposure and Capnometry-Guided Breathing Therapy

BEHAVIORAL

Written Exposure Therapy (WET)

Participants will complete 5 writing sessions. One 50-minute session will be held in the hospital before discharge, followed by four 50-minute sessions by secure video once a week. Sessions are delivered by a trained study therapist under licensed clinician supervision.

DEVICE

Capnometry-Guided Breathing Intervention (CGRI)

Participants will complete one 45-minute in-hospital training session using the device, which includes a tablet and breathing sensor. They will then practice guided breathing at home twice daily for about 17 minutes each time for 4 weeks, with weekly phone check-ins from study staff.

Percentage of participants initiating assigned treatment

Time frame: Baseline (up to 2 weeks)

Proportion of participants who begin their assigned intervention (≥1 session for WET; completion of initial training for CGRI)

Percentage of participants completing Written Exposure Therapy (WET)

Time frame: Baseline to Week 6

Percentage adherence to Written Exposure Therapy (WET)

Time frame: Baseline to Week 6

Percentage of participants completing Capnometry Guided Respiratory Intervention (CGRI)

Time frame: Baseline to Week 6

Percentage adherence to Capnometry Guided Respiratory Intervention (CGRI)

Time frame: Baseline to Week 6

Participant Satisfaction Scale Score using Client Satisfaction Questionnaire (CSQ-8)

Time frame: Week 5

Participant satisfaction measured using the CSQ-8 questionaire, an 8-item scale. (Scale score 8 - 32. Higher scores represent greater satisfaction with treatment.)

Treatment credibility using the Opinion About Treatment (OAT) form

Time frame: Week 5

Participant perceptions of treatment credibility will be measured using the OAT form. (Scale score 3 - 27. Higher scores represent greater perceived credibility of the intervention.)

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.