Parenting Infants in the Pandemic Study (PIPS)

The Parenting Infants in the Pandemic Study (PIPS) invited women (18 years and older) and their partners who gave birth during the COVID-19 pandemic. This study began with a statewide survey of 1,500+ families. Mothers completed an online survey to assess stress exposure in the context of the pandemic. This was followed by a second phase in which approximately 400 families were invited to participate in virtual visits to gather more in-depth insights into their experiences.

Our hope is to uncover how the unique stressors faced by pregnant women and their partners during the COVID-19 pandemic influence various aspects of their well-being and that of their infants. By identifying different stress profiles and their associations with mental health, parenting behaviors, and biological markers, this study aims to help us understand how these effects occur and why they happen. Ultimately, our goal is to inform and improve public health interventions for perinatal care for families affected by the pandemic.