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Abstracts & Posters

Vol. 1 No. S1 (2025): Special Issue: 2025 Geisel Research Poster Night

Text-Message Based Doula Peer-Supported Intervention to Address Postpartum Depression in Rural New England

Submitted
9 December 2025
Published
27-12-2025

Abstract

Postpartum depression (PPD) disproportionately affects birthing individuals in rural regions with limited access to behavioral health services. This pilot randomized controlled trial evaluates the feasibility and acceptability of DoulaConnect, a three-month, text-based peer-support intervention delivered by trained doulas to postpartum individuals with a history of substance use. Thirty participants will be randomized to DoulaConnect or treatment-as-usual OB-GYN follow-up. Outcomes include changes in depressive symptoms, perceived social support, parenting stress, health-related quality of life, and self-efficacy. The intervention leverages Medicaid-reimbursable doula training and digital communication pathways to address geographic barriers and enhance continuity of postpartum support. Results will guide development of larger, multisite trials and inform community-driven strategies aimed at reducing mental-health disparities in rural populations.

References

  1. References are available on the poster PDF.