Expecting Mothers & Fathers
Research Study
Research Study
Researchers at Duke University are collaborating with expecting mothers and fathers in a research study exploring how the father’s environment influences their babies’ genes
Research Conducted in Durham, NC
Compensation Provided
Currently Pregnant
Father willing to Participate
18 - 40 Years Old
Fast Facts
Research Conducted in Durham, NC
Compensation Provided
Currently Pregnant
Father willing to Participate
18 - 40 Years Old
Fast Facts
About Our Research Study
The Duke Child and Family Study Center is evaluating how the father’s environment affects their baby’s genes. Parents may be exposed to external factors such as air pollution, diet, medication, and substance use before a baby is conceived. The vast majority of studies that investigate these exposures have been focused on mothers. Few studies have examined the effects of the paternal environment on their child's development. Our goal is to better understand the potential contribution of paternal behavior to the child's development. |
Additional Information
Duke University researchers are investigating how a babies’ genes and development are affected by their father’s environment.
You may qualify for this study if you meet the following criteria.
Key Criteria:
Key Criteria:
- Both mother and father are between 18 and 40 years old
- Father is able to participate in the study
- Plan on delivering their baby at one of the Duke-affiliated hospitals or willing to allow the study team access to their and their child’s medical records at the institution they deliver.
- Able to do a 6-month post-delivery visit
We will need for both parents to agree to participate in the study and complete the following visits:
- Intake visit to collect medical history, complete surveys, and provide a urine sample. Mother and father can complete this visit separately if they are unable to come together.
- The biological father will be asked to submit a semen sample at the Duke Fertility Clinic on Fayetteville Street in Durham, NC. Due to current COVID-19 restrictions, the semen sample can be collected at home but will need to be dropped off at the fertility clinic. We will provide you with specific instructions about this.
- Return to the clinic with your child when she or he is 6 months old for child development assessments and collection of a saliva sample from your child.
You will be compensated for your participation in this research study.
There will be no charge to you for to participate in this research program.