The stress and trauma associated with disasters has been linked to pregnancy complications. With the increases in disaster exposure driven by climate change and population growth in Louisiana, the M-O-M-S™ on the Bayou program aims to reduce the negative effects of disaster on pregnancy in women.
The M-O-M-S™ intervention was started as a pilot project for pregnant women whose spouses were deployed in the military. The goal of the study was to reduce stress and anxiety during pregnancy by providing a space for pregnant women to learn about themselves and discuss their feelings with other pregnant women. In the trials, the M-O-M-S™ intervention improved mental health by significantly reducing anxiety among the women who participated as well as increasing birthweight and gestational age. The positive results suggested this program might be useful in other highly stressful circumstances, like natural disasters. The M-O-M-S™program will be implemented in Kenner, Houma, the Bayou Region, and River Parishes.
What can you expect?
As a participant in this study, you will commit to attend six one-hour group sessions over 12 weeks with other pregnant women led by a mentor. The goals of these sessions are to decrease pregnancy concerns, aid in disaster preparation, and build coping skills through supportive relationships with local mothers.
You will also be asked to complete two surveys: one survey will be given prior to the first session and the second survey will be given prior to the final and sixth session.
Benefits of participating
- Receive the Birth of the Mother Manual to guide you through your pregnancy.
- Connect with other pregnant women in your community.
Receive mentoring from class facilitators who have experience in childbirth.- Learn skills in coping with stress and anxiety.
- Receive a $50 gift card after you complete the initial survey prior to attending the first M-O-M-S session.
- Receive a disaster preparedness kit (estimated value $30).
- Receive a $75 gift card after you attend the final session and complete the second survey prior to class.
Are you eligible?
- Age 18 and above.
- Pregnant woman.
- Willing to commit to participating in intervention (sessions) which is six one-hour group sessions over 12 weeks.
- Willing to allow medical record abstraction.
- Enrolled in prenatal care.
- Planning to continue living in the area.
- Planning to continue pregnancy and no fetal defects likely to lead to death or extensive hospitalization postpartum.