Austin, TX, February 7, 2026
The University of Texas at Austin is joining a nationwide clinical trial to test a fast-acting, drug-free brain stimulation therapy called SAINT neuromodulation for postpartum depression. Funded by the U.S. Department of Defense, the study will evaluate the safety and efficacy of this personalized treatment, which has previously shown promise in patients with major depressive disorder. Enrollment is open for women aged 18-45 experiencing peripartum depression, targeting up to 192 participants at UT Austin.
Austin, TX: UT Austin Joins Clinical Trial for Drug-Free Postpartum Depression Treatment
AUSTIN, Texas — The University of Texas at Austin is participating in a nationwide clinical trial to evaluate a fast-acting, drug-free brain stimulation therapy for postpartum depression. This study, funded by the U.S. Department of Defense, aims to determine if SAINT neuromodulation can safely and quickly alleviate symptoms in new mothers.
Study Details
The trial is led by Magnus Medical and involves four research sites across the country, including UT Austin. SAINT neuromodulation is a personalized brain stimulation therapy that has been FDA-cleared for major depressive disorder. Previous studies have shown that 79% of patients experienced remission in an average of just 2.6 days. The current study will assess whether this approach can be safely applied to postpartum depression.
Eligibility and Enrollment
The study is open to women aged 18-45 who are experiencing a major depressive episode with peripartum onset. Enrollment at UT Austin is currently underway, with plans to include up to 192 participants. Interested individuals can submit an interest form through the study’s website, and study staff will provide more information about eligibility.
Background on Postpartum Depression
Postpartum depression affects approximately 500,000 women in the United States each year, with rates increasing substantially since 2000. Existing treatments, including antidepressant medications and psychotherapy, may take weeks to show benefit and are not effective for all patients. Some medications may also be transferred during breastfeeding, leading many new mothers to delay or avoid treatment. This study offers an opportunity to explore a non-invasive, non-drug treatment that could provide meaningful relief more quickly than current options allow.
About the Funding
The study is supported by the Department of Defense’s Peer Reviewed Medical Research Program, with an award of $11,619,193. The funding underscores the importance of addressing postpartum depression, a condition that not only affects mothers but also their infants and families.
Contact Information
For more information about the study or to express interest in participation, please visit the study’s website or contact the study team directly.
Key Features of the Study
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Study Name | SAINT Neuromodulation for Postpartum Depression |
| Lead Organization | Magnus Medical |
| Participating Sites | UT Austin, Medical University of South Carolina, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School |
| Funding Source | U.S. Department of Defense’s Peer Reviewed Medical Research Program |
| Funding Amount | $11,619,193 |
| Target Enrollment | Up to 192 women aged 18-45 |
| Study Focus | Assessing the safety and efficacy of SAINT neuromodulation for postpartum depression |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the purpose of this clinical trial?
The trial aims to evaluate whether SAINT neuromodulation, a personalized brain stimulation therapy, can safely and quickly alleviate symptoms of postpartum depression in new mothers.
Who is eligible to participate in the study?
Women aged 18-45 who are experiencing a major depressive episode with peripartum onset are eligible to participate. Enrollment at UT Austin is currently underway, with plans to include up to 192 participants.
How can I express interest in participating?
Interested individuals can submit an interest form through the study’s website. Study staff will then provide more information about eligibility and the next steps.
What is SAINT neuromodulation?
SAINT neuromodulation is a personalized brain stimulation therapy that has been FDA-cleared for major depressive disorder. Previous studies have shown that 79% of patients experienced remission in an average of just 2.6 days. The current study will assess whether this approach can be safely applied to postpartum depression.
How is the study funded?
The study is supported by the Department of Defense’s Peer Reviewed Medical Research Program, with an award of $11,619,193. This funding underscores the importance of addressing postpartum depression, a condition that not only affects mothers but also their infants and families.
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