MaMa Study
One in five women in the United States feels sadness, anxiety, or stress while pregnant or after the birth. If not treated, postpartum or perinatal depression and anxiety can contribute to health complications for both mother and baby. The Maternal Mental Health Access (MMHA = "MaMa") Study implemented an online prevention program for women who are at-risk for postpartum depression. While the study is no longer open to enrollment, our team is working to sustain the online program for the future. Please visit the resources tabs on this website.
What is the purpose of the study?
Depression and anxiety during and after pregnancy can lead to health problems for the mother and baby. The purpose of the MaMa study was to implement a prevention program through an online patient education portal, YoMingo. The program is an easy-to-access approach to prevent postpartum depression.
How did the study work and what were the results?
The MaMa study used the free online patient education portal (YoMingo) offered by University of Utah Health to implement a program designed to reduce the occurrence of postpartum depression. The program included access to online self-guided modules in YoMingo, as well as the choice to participate in live videoconference sessions for groups of at-risk individuals and a Facebook discussion board. The modules used evidence-based approaches based on cognitive-behavioral therapy and mindfulness-based practices. As of September 1, 2025, the study is closed to further enrollment. Our team is currently analyzing the study data and will post results here when available, so be sure to check back later. In the meantime, our team is working to sustain the program to support future childbearing individuals through collaboration with UHealth, the Utah Department of Health & Human Services, and YoMingo. Check out the resources tab on this website. UHealth patients can continue to use the free YoMingo app and the mental wellness resources listed there. Health District communities can access mental health resources available with the UDHHS (see links on this website's resources page).
Contact Us
Email: momsmentalhealth@utah.edu
This study is conducted by Dr. Gwen Latendresse at the University of Utah College of Nursing (IRB_00159109)
For Emergencies:
If you or someone you care about is in crisis, please call National Maternal Mental Health Hotline. They provide free and confidential support 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year with voice and text support in both English and Spanish with hotline counselors staffed through Postpartum Support International.
1-833-9-HELP4MOMS
Hunstman Center Walk-In Hours
Monday - Sunday: 12 AM - 11:59 PM
Open 24/7
Huntsman Mental Health Institute Crisis Care Center
955 West 3300 South
South Salt Lake, UT 84119
Crisis Lifeline
Crisis Lifeline Phone Number: 988
The 988 Lifeline is available 24/7. Your conversations are free and confidential.
For additional resources on the Crisis Lifeline click here.