Study Title: Postpartum Depression and Social Networks in the Age of COVID-19

Protocol Number: HSR-22-23-419

Researchers:
Mariah Ayala, Graduate Student, CSUF Division of Anthropology
mariahrayala@csu.fullerton.edu
(909)319-9108
Dr. Elizabeth Pillsworth, Professor, CSUF Division of Anthropology
epillsworth@fullerton.edu
(310)977-1578

You are being asked to take part in a research study carried out by Mariah Ayala, under the guidance of Dr. Elizabeth Pillsworth. This consent form explains the research study and your part in it if you decide to join the study. Please read the form carefully, taking as much time as you need. Ask the researcher to explain anything you don’t understand. You can decide not to join the study. If you join the study, you can change your mind later and leave the study at any time. There will be no penalty or loss of services or benefits if you decide to not take part in the study.

What is this study about?
The purpose of this research study is to gather information regarding women’s experiences of pregnancy and/or childbirth during the time period of March 2020 to June 2020. You are being asked to participate in this study because any and all data is valuable at this stage in the research process. You cannot take part in this study if you are below the age of 18 or do not meet the participant criteria. To participate in the study, you must have given birth between April 2019 and April 2020. Taking part in the study will take about 15 to 30 minutes.

What will I be asked to do if I am in this study?
If you take part in the research study, you will be asked to complete a survey including questions regarding demographic, and pre and post-natal health during the time period of March 2020 to June 2020. You will be asked questions recalling your overall health and wellness throughout pregnancy and postpartum during this time period. You will also be asked about the members of your household, your social network, and your relationships to these individuals during this time.

Are there any benefits to me if I am in this study?
There is no direct benefit to participants for participating in this study. Social benefits include expanding our knowledge regarding women’s reproductive health during disaster events and promoting social awareness regarding postpartum depression.

 Are there any risks to me if I am in this study?
The potential risks from taking part in the study are:

• Potential discomfort or stress associated with recalling pregnancy and childbirth
• Potential discomfort answering sensitive questions regarding sexuality, gender identity, family relationships, and symptoms of postpartum depression.

Will my information be kept anonymous or confidential?
The data for this study will be kept anonymously. Neither the researchers nor anyone else will be able to link data to you. No published results will identify you, and your name will not be associated with the findings. The data for this study will be kept indefinitely. The results of this study may be published or presented at professional meetings, but the identities of all research participants will remain anonymous. All data will be stored in a password-protected computer.

Are there any costs or payments for being in this study?
There will be no cost to you for taking part in this study. You will not receive money or any other compensation for participating in this study.

Whom can I contact if I have questions?
If you have questions about this study or the information in this form, please contact the researcher Mariah Ayala at mariahrayala@csu.fullerton.edu or text at (909) 319-9108. If you have questions about your rights as a research participant or would like to report a concern or complaint about this study, please contact the Institutional Review Board at (657) 278-7719 or e-mail irb@fullerton.edu.

What are my rights as a research study volunteer?
Your participation in this research study is completely voluntary. You may choose not to be a part of this study. There will be no penalty for you if you choose not to take part. You may choose not to answer specific questions or to stop participating at any time.

What does clicking agree on this form mean?
Clicking agree on this form means that:

• You understand the information given to you in this form
• You have been able to ask the researcher questions and state any concerns
• The researcher has responded to your questions and concerns
• You believe you understand the research study and the potential benefits and risks that are involved.

 Statement of Consent

I have carefully read and/or have had the terms used in this consent form and their significance explained to me. By clicking below, I agree that I am at least 18 years of age and agree to participate in this project. You may print this page for your records.