Establishment of International Collaborative Research: Effects of Prenatal Maternal Stress. (December 2016) - Lapiz-Bluhm, M.
Abstract : Background: Effects of maternal disaster exposure during pregnancy has received limited attention, especially those in Third World countries. Although studies have shown that stress to a pregnant woman can have serious negative consequences to the mother and child, the mechanisms are not well understood. Understanding these mechanisms could potentially inform relevant interventions. However, experimental research exposing pregnant women to stress is prevented by ethical issues. Natural disasters may offer an alternative means to conduct these studies. Objective: This paper aims to describe the establishment of international research collaboration on a study determining the effects of prenatal maternal stress exposure to the 2013 Super Typhoon Haiyan in the Philippines led by United States-based researchers. Methods: The Plan-Do-Study-Act cycle was adapted to track the process. US-based researchers utilized contact networks and presentations at an international conference in the Philippines to identify collaborators in the academia and community. Following establishment of research infrastructure, the study tools were examined, translated and piloted for feasibility and acceptability. Data collection of the mixed-method study then commenced. Results: Four stages of the collaborative process were identified: I-initial contact; II-feasibility; III- conduct study; IV-post-study. The team had to overcome challenges related to the research infrastructure and process. The adaptation of the Plan-Do-Study-Act framework allowed for reflection and development of strategies to overcome challenges. The results of the feasibility study of mother-child dyads (n = 6) showed maternal mental health issues associated with child's development. Conclusion: Despite inherent challenges due to the international nature of the research collaboration, the study can be done. Pilot results indicate the importance of mental health issues among women who experienced Haiyan during their pregnancy. Lessons learned from this international collaborative effort may provide basis for other researchers who may be interested in international research aimed at developing community-based interventions to improve resiliency following a natural disaster.