RecruitingOBSERVATIONAL

Hair Cortisol as Marker of Chronic Stress in Preterm and Term Fathers - Fathair-study

This study investigates stress levels in new fathers, focusing on those with babies born early (prematurely) compared to those with babies born at the normal time. Researchers are interested in a stress hormone called cortisol, which can be measured in hair. By collecting hair samples and asking fathers to complete questionnaires at different times after their baby's birth, the study aims to see how stress levels might differ between these groups and how they change over time. It also explores if there are other effects linked to a father's stress hormone levels. This helps us understand the challenges faced by new fathers, especially when a baby arrives sooner than expected.

At a glance

Status

Recruiting

Sponsor

University of Cologne

Enrolment target

120

Start

01 Oct 2024

Estimated completion

31 Dec 2025

Stress, Psychological Father-Child Relations Premature Birth

What is this study about?

Becoming a parent is an exciting time, but it can also be stressful. For parents whose baby arrives earlier than expected, known as a premature birth, the stress can often be much higher because they might not have had as much time to prepare. This study, called 'Fathair', wants to understand this stress better, specifically in fathers of newborn babies.

The researchers will look at a stress hormone called cortisol. This hormone can be found in hair, and measuring it in hair gives a good idea of someone's stress levels over a longer period. They will also ask fathers to fill out questionnaires about their feelings and well-being. By comparing fathers of premature babies with fathers of babies born at the usual time, the study hopes to see if there are differences in their stress levels and how these levels might change in the first few months after their baby's birth. At six months, they'll also look at how sensitive fathers are to their baby's cues.

The main goal is to find out if stress hormone levels are different between these groups of fathers and how these levels might change over time. They also want to explore if a father's stress levels are connected to other things. Understanding this could help support new fathers better, especially those facing the challenges of a premature birth.

Key takeaways

The study looks at stress in new fathers using hair samples.
It compares fathers of premature babies with those of full-term babies.
Cortisol, a stress hormone, is measured in hair.
Participation involves hair samples and questionnaires over six months.
The goal is to understand how fatherly stress levels change and what might link to them.

Who may be eligible?

To be part of this study, fathers must have a newborn baby who is either premature (born between 22 and nearly 37 weeks) or full-term (born between 37 and 42 weeks). For full-term babies, their first days should have been straightforward, without any major health problems.

Your baby should not have any serious birth defects or genetic conditions. You also need to be able to understand and speak German well enough to complete the study materials. Both parents must agree in writing for the father to take part in the study.

However, you cannot take part if you are an adoptive or foster father. Also, if your hair is shorter than 3cm at the back of your head, you won't be able to provide the necessary hair sample. If you have certain hormone conditions, particularly those affecting the adrenal glands (like Cushing syndrome), or if you are taking medications that affect these hormones (like steroids), you won't be able to participate. Finally, if you have a serious ongoing mental or physical illness, you would not be eligible.

Could this study suit you?

Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.

My baby was born between 22 and 42 weeks of pregnancy.
My full-term baby had a healthy start without major issues.
I'm the biological father and both parents agree to my participation.
I can speak and understand German well.
My hair is at least 3 cm (about 1.2 inches) long at the back of my head.
I don't have certain hormone conditions or take specific medications that affect hormones.

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

If you decide to take part in this study, you will be asked to give a hair sample and fill out some questionnaires at three different times. The first time will be within the first week after your baby is born. The second time will be three months after birth, and the third time will be six months after birth.

At the six-month mark, researchers will also observe and measure your 'paternal sensitivity', which means how well you respond to your baby's needs and cues. There are no medications or treatments involved in this study; it's purely about collecting information through hair samples and questionnaires. The total duration of your participation will be about six months.

Potential risks and benefits

This study aims to provide a better understanding of stress in new fathers, which could eventually lead to improved support for families. While there's no direct personal benefit from taking part, your contribution could help many others in the future. The risks are very low; giving a hair sample and filling out questionnaires are generally safe. Your information will be kept private. Remember, you have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without it affecting your medical care.

Locations (1)

University Hospital of Cologne
Verified postcode
Cologne, Germany· Recruiting

Common questions

What is cortisol and why is it measured in hair?

Cortisol is known as the 'stress hormone'. Measuring it in your hair can give researchers an idea of your stress levels over the past few weeks or months, rather than just at one moment in time.

Is this study only for fathers of premature babies?

No, the study includes fathers of both premature babies (born early) and full-term babies (born at the usual time). This helps researchers compare stress levels between these two groups.

How often will I need to give a hair sample?

You'll be asked to provide a hair sample three times: once in the first week after your baby is born, then at three months, and again at six months.

What is 'paternal sensitivity'?

Paternal sensitivity refers to how well a father notices and responds to their baby's signals and needs. Researchers will observe this around six months after the baby's birth.

Do I need to speak German to participate?

Yes, you need to have a good understanding of German to be able to complete the questionnaires and participate fully in the study.

How to find out more

Eva Heine, Dr. med.

eva.heine@uk-koeln.de 004922147885663 Official trial record

Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.