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A report from Kris 6 News in Texas highlighted that researchers at the University of Texas are leveraging artificial intelligence to address this issue. They are testing a new AI chatbot in partnership with Postpartum Support International, which will be available to mothers through a free app. The chatbot's programming is designed to respond to common postpartum concerns, including challenges in relationships and breastfeeding.
The team's research indicated that many women they studied faced barriers in seeking care due to the stigma associated with PMAD. Miriam Mikhelson, one of the researchers, mentioned that many felt misunderstood and invalidated.
"It's challenging to find the resources and time to seek help, and even then, there's no guarantee of finding the right support," she noted.
A statement from the University of Texas suggests that the project aims to develop a chatbot logic grounded in wide-ranging research on mothers, which will enhance understanding and support. The project's results, according to the authors, may provide insights into the social and cultural factors influencing the kind of support postpartum women seek.
Symptoms of postpartum depression can vary widely. The CDC lists common signs as feelings of anger, frequent crying, withdrawing from loved ones, feeling disconnected from the baby, and fearing harm to the baby.
Michiel Rauws, CEO and founder of the AI mental health company, Cass, discussed the potential of chatbot technology in supporting postpartum women. "Duke University utilized our chatbot tech to assist women with postpartum depression," Rauws, based in San Francisco, told Fox News Digital. "Our collaboration yielded two peer-reviewed research papers."
Rauws stressed the need for a strong support structure. Without correctly integrating into standard care processes, care quality might suffer. It's crucial that individuals seeking direct communication are quickly connected to emergency counselors or telehealth providers.
However, Rauws also noted limitations with the University of Texas chatbot being app-based. "Our research shows that those in rural areas, who need this service most, may not always have consistent smartphone or internet access," he remarked.
Rauws stressed the need for a strong support structure. Without correctly integrating into standard care processes, care quality might suffer. It's crucial that individuals seeking direct communication are quickly connected to emergency counselors or telehealth providers.
Monte Swarup, M.D., a board-certified OB/GYN and founder of HPV HUB, while not affiliated with UT, commented on the potential of AI chatbots. She mentioned their utility but stressed that they aren't a substitute for human-based treatment. She stated that AI cannot monitor patient progress or replace human empathy. Although a chatbot could be an adjunct to a holistic treatment approach, more research is needed to validate its efficacy in supporting postpartum women.
The University of Texas expects their AI chatbot to be accessible to women by 2024.