About this trial
The goal of this clinical trial is to see how giving direct cash support affects the health of pregnant women and their babies in the U.S. Many families, especially those with low incomes, face challenges during pregnancy and after childbirth. This study will explore whether financial help during these times leads to better health.
The main questions this research aims to answer are:
* Does extra money during pregnancy and a baby's first months improve the baby's growth and overall health? * How does financial support affect a mother's physical and mental health before and after birth? * Does having extra money help moms get better healthcare and make healthier food choices for themselves and their babies?
Participants in this study will be randomly assigned to either a high cash or low cash group. They will be enrolled in the study and asked to complete:
* A baseline survey * A follow-up survey 12 months after enrollment * A final survey 18 months after enrollment
In addition, participants' medical records will be reviewed, and some may be selected for a qualitative interview to share more about their experiences.
This research is being done in partnership with The Bridge Project, a program that helps moms in need. The goal is to find better ways to support the health of moms and babies facing financial hardship.
Eligibility criteria
Qualifiers
Living in any of the study sites: Appalachian regions (West Virginia, Ohio, Kentucky, Tennessee)
Being in the first or second trimester
Being 18 years or older
Disqualifiers
Mothers with severe conditions such as terminal cancer.
Mothers with identified addiction disorders. This includes any current or past addiction to legal (pain medication, alcohol) or illegal substance that has known risk for self-harm death (suicide, overdose) and/or consequences for maternal and/or fetal health.
Mothers younger than 18 years old.
Not living in the study site range
Trial design
Treatments tested in this trial
- Direct Cash Support for Maternal and Infant Health (High fee)
- Behavioral: Direct Cash Support for Maternal and Infant Health (Low fee)
Treatment groups
Sponsors and collaborators
Columbia University
Lead sponsor
The Bridge Project
Collaborator