Meta Description: Explore OHSU’s latest advancements in reproductive health research, focusing on the Pregnancy Decisions App Project aimed at supporting individuals with developmental disabilities in making informed pregnancy choices.

Introduction

Reproductive health is a critical aspect of overall well-being, encompassing a wide range of issues from fertility to contraception and pregnancy. Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) is at the forefront of sexual health research, particularly focusing on the needs of individuals with developmental disabilities. Their innovative projects aim to bridge gaps in knowledge and provide essential tools to support informed decision-making in reproductive health.

Understanding Reproductive Health Needs Among People with Disabilities

Contrary to common misconceptions, individuals with disabilities possess the same interests and desires regarding sexual and reproductive health as anyone else. Recognizing this, OHSU’s University Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities undertakes comprehensive research to understand the unique needs and challenges faced by this community. By delving deep into these aspects, the research aims to dismantle stereotypes and promote a more inclusive approach to reproductive health.

The Pregnancy Decisions App Project

One of the standout initiatives from OHSU is the Pregnancy Decisions App Project, a groundbreaking study designed to assist individuals with developmental disabilities in making informed decisions about pregnancy. This five-year project is a testament to OHSU’s commitment to leveraging technology in enhancing reproductive health outcomes.

Project Overview

The primary objective of the Pregnancy Decisions App Project is to develop a user-friendly mobile application that provides essential information and support for individuals considering pregnancy. The app is tailored to cater to the specific needs of people with developmental disabilities, ensuring that the information is accessible and comprehensible.

Project Components

The project is structured into three main phases:

Community Engagement: Engaging with individuals with developmental disabilities to understand their decision-making processes concerning pregnancy.
Survey and Feedback: Conducting comprehensive surveys to identify the most critical features and information to include in the app.
App Development and Testing: Creating the app based on gathered data and refining it through iterative feedback from the target user group.

Research Team and Partners

OHSU collaborates with Portland State University’s Academic Autism Spectrum Partnership in Research and Education (AASPIRE) to drive this project forward. The team comprises esteemed researchers and community partners dedicated to ensuring the app meets the highest standards of accuracy and usability.

Participatory Research Approach

A key element of the Pregnancy Decisions App Project is its participatory research approach. This methodology involves active collaboration between university scientists and community members, ensuring that the research is grounded in the real experiences and needs of those it aims to serve. By involving individuals with developmental disabilities in the research process, OHSU ensures that the resulting app is both effective and user-centric.

Meet the Research Team

Willi Horner-Johnson: Principal Investigator and professor at OHSU’s Institute on Development and Disability. She leads the Pregnancy Decisions App Project, focusing on enhancing health outcomes for people with disabilities.
Christina Nicolaidis: Co-Investigator and internal medicine doctor at OHSU. As a co-director of AASPIRE, she emphasizes participatory research to improve healthcare inclusivity.
Dora Raymaker: Research Assistant Professor at PSU, leading interviews and app testing to ensure the project meets user needs.
Jeanne-Marie Guise: Obstetrician at OHSU, ensuring the medical accuracy of the app’s content.
Karen Eden: Professor in medical informatics at OHSU, guiding the development of decision-making tools within the app.
Katie McDonald: Associate Dean for Research at Syracuse University, focusing on the ethical aspects of research involving adults with intellectual disabilities.

How You Can Contribute

OHSU is actively seeking participants for the survey component of the Pregnancy Decisions App Project. Individuals who meet the following criteria are encouraged to participate:

Have a developmental disability (e.g., intellectual disability, autism)
Aged between 18-50 years
Possess the potential for pregnancy
Reside in the United States

Participants will receive a $25 compensation for their time, and their contributions will be invaluable in shaping a tool that supports informed reproductive choices.

Future Implications

The development of the Pregnancy Decisions App represents a significant advancement in sexual health research. By providing a tailored resource for individuals with developmental disabilities, OHSU is paving the way for more inclusive healthcare solutions. This project not only addresses current gaps but also sets a precedent for future technological interventions in reproductive health.

Conclusion

OHSU’s commitment to advancing reproductive health research, particularly for marginalized communities, underscores the importance of inclusive and accessible healthcare solutions. Projects like the Pregnancy Decisions App exemplify how targeted research and innovative technology can converge to support informed decision-making and enhance overall well-being.

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