Comparing two posttraumatic stress disorder screening approaches to improve health outcomes in pregnant black women:...

Background: Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) during pregnancy is directly related to negative maternal health and birth outcomes. However, prenatal screening for PTSD is not conducted regularly. In addition, PTSD and maternal morbidity disproportionally affect Black women, making it critical to improve detection and treatment of PTSD for Black women in pregnancy. Obstetrics clinics in urban safety net hospitals are uniquely positioned to implement systemic changes in how pregnant women are screened for comorbidities and retained in perinatal care, which could result in decreased maternal morbidities and improved mental health outcomes.Methods: Using a multicenter, randomized, parallel-group design, we outline a clinical trial that will compare the effectiveness of two active PTSD screening approaches for Black pregnant women receiving care in urban obstetrics clinics. Participants are randomly assigned to one of two intervention arms: a brief screening for PTSD or a culturally responsive screening, brief intervention and referral to treatment for obstetrics (SBIRT for OB) intervention.Discussion: This is the first study to directly examine the effects of these PTSD screening approaches on mental and physical health outcomes and care management for pregnant women. Improving how PTSD is identified and addressed during pregnancy could help reduce racial disparities in maternal health outcomes and ensure that Black mothers receive the care and support they deserve.Trial registration: The study has been registered with clinicaltrials.gov (NCT#06522022).