Frequently Asked Questions
What is PLACES?
PLACES, short for Postpartum Lifestyle and Cardiovascular Evaluation Study, is a research study using surveys to understand postpartum health and well-being based on input from people who have recently delivered. The surveys aim to capture information about experiences and feelings including stress, sleep, breastfeeding, and social needs.
How long will it take?
This study consists of two surveys taken around 6 weeks and 12 weeks postpartum. Each survey will take about 10 minutes.
Am I eligible to participate?
To participate in this study, you must:
- Read English, Spanish, or Haitian Creole
- Be 18 years or older
- Have delivered your baby at Boston Medical Center
- Be between 4 and 8 weeks postpartum at the time of the first survey
What if I am not between 4 and 8 weeks postpartum?
- If you have not yet reached 4 weeks postpartum, you can provide your information to be contacted to participate when you are eligible.
- If you are more than 8 weeks postpartum, unfortunately you have exceeded our initial enrollment requirement.
What if I want to end participation before completion?
If you no longer wish to participate in the study, you can contact the study team via email or text message.
Are there any risks in participating?
This is a minimal risk study. However, we cannot guarantee complete anonymity.
What will happen to my information?
Your information will be used to compare the self-reported data to data in your electronic medical record. This information will be kept private. Only the study team and persons meeting the approval of the principal investigator will have access to this information.
Do I receive anything for participating in the study?
Yes, we appreciate your participation. Participants will receive a $10 electronic gift card for completing each survey. Participants can receive an additional $5 for uploading a picture of their blood pressure measure.
How do I take a picture of my blood pressure?
If you have a home blood pressure cuff, take a blood pressure then take a photo of the screen (there should be at least two numbers with a slash between them). You could do the same thing at a doctor or midwife visit – take a picture of the blood pressure on the machine they use to check yours. Another possibility is most pharmacies like Walgreens and CVS have a blood pressure machine for customers to use located by the pharmacy window.
How long will it take to receive my gift card?
Upon completion of each survey, your gift card will be emailed to you within 3-5 business days.