About THIS STUDY

The FIND Study explores the critical role of placental function in fetal and neonatal brain development. We are particularly focused on adapting and optimizing Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) techniques to assess placental health. This study will involve advanced MRI techniques that breakdown the MRI signals into different parts. Specifically 2 techniques are utilized: Diffusion MRI, which provides information about the structure and function of tissues, and MR Relaxometry, which provides information about oxygen levels. Changes in these readings can indicate problems such as fetal growth restriction.
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WHY is it important?

Placental function is an important predictor of fetal brain oxygen delivery and brain function. Presently, placental function is determined with Doppler ultrasound. ​MRI uses magnetic waves to take pictures of the inside of your body which may provide more information on blood flow than Doppler ultrasound.


overall goal

The goal of this study is to develop novel MRI methods to study placental function and its association with fetal and neonatal brain function, maternal distress, and substance use (specifically cannabis and opioid use).

Eligibility
​
We are inviting healthy pregnant women or those who have just given birth to participate in our study.

You might be eligible to participate if you are:
- 18+ years old
- currently pregnant with 1 baby OR given birth to 1 baby in the last 6 months
- ​Not taking any medications
- No history of cardiovascular disease 

You will be compensated for your time.

whAT wiLL hAPPEN DURING THE STUDY?

This study involves a series of MRI scans: 2 during the 3rd trimester of pregnancy, and 1 for your newborn. 

You will be asked to lie on the left side of the MRI table.
​ A special antenna will be placed around your torso and chest during the MRI scan to receive a signal from their body to create the images. 
The MRI table will slide your feet first into the scanner.
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how long is the study?

Each MRI will take about 40 - 60 minutes.  The total time including set up will be about 1.25 hours.
If you would like to participate in this study, please contact:
​
Emily Nichols
[email protected]

Emma Duerden 
[email protected]

​519-661-2111 ext. 88694