Biological Mechanisms of Perinatal Anxiety

The purpose of this study is to identify the clinical and biological phenotypes that define perinatal anxiety. This is an extension of a study funded by the NIMH; the main outcomes of that study have already been published, but we would like to collect additional data to allow us to examine additional biological factors. Anxiety is very common in pregnancy and the postpartum period.  There have been many studies on perinatal depression, but relatively few on perinatal anxiety, even though we have considerable evidence of the harmful effects of anxiety on the developing fetus and on the mother’s risk for future illness.  Little is known about the biological causes of anxiety in pregnancy, but the immune and endocrine systems may play a role.  In this study, we will be enrolling pregnant individuals with and without anxiety to examine immune, endocrine, and other biological factors.  Participants will completely psychological assessments and have their blood drawn at four visits across pregnancy and postpartum. 

If you are interested in participating this study, feel free to reach out to us: pippilab@med.cornell.edu