Home Visiting for Mother and Infant Well-being

(MIHOPE Trial)

This trial aims to evaluate the effectiveness of home visiting programs in improving the well-being of mothers and infants. The focus is on assisting families with young children through home visits, which can enhance child health, school readiness, and positive parenting. Participants are randomly assigned to receive either home visits or community service referrals. This study is ideal for those who are pregnant or have a child under 28 weeks old and qualify for the selected home visiting program. As an unphased study, this trial provides a unique opportunity to contribute to research that could enhance support for families with young children.

The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications.

Research has shown that home visiting programs are safe and well-liked by families. These programs aim to improve the health and well-being of mothers and babies by providing support and education directly in their homes. Studies have not identified major safety issues or negative effects with these programs. Instead, they have noted positive impacts on the health of mothers and children, child welfare, and early education.

The Maternal, Infant, and Early Childhood Home Visiting (MIECHV) program plays a key role in these efforts. It helps families by offering guidance and resources from professionals like nurses and educators. These professionals focus on promoting healthy habits and supporting those who may have trouble accessing other services.

Researchers are excited about home visiting programs because they offer a hands-on, personalized approach to improving the well-being of mothers and infants, especially in high-risk families. Unlike traditional healthcare options that might require families to visit clinics or hospitals, home visiting brings support directly to the family's doorstep. This method can enhance engagement and provide tailored guidance in familiar surroundings, which is crucial for fostering positive health, education, and parenting practices. By focusing on early intervention in the home environment, these programs aim to bridge gaps in care and reach families who might otherwise struggle to access conventional services.

Research shows that home visiting programs, which participants in this trial will receive, can greatly enhance the health and well-being of families. Studies have found that these programs lead to improved child development, health, and family financial stability. They also reduce child abuse and encourage positive parenting. For mothers with challenging pasts, such as those who were in foster care, home visits are linked to better health and social outcomes. Overall, evidence suggests that home visiting effectively supports families at risk and promotes early childhood health and development.¹²³⁶⁷