SPRING Study
STUDY BASICS
Are you in your first trimester of pregnancy (less than 13 weeks)? Do you sit a lot throughout the day, but would like to sit less? You may be able to participate in a research study to reduce sitting during pregnancy. All participants will be asked to complete 3 virtual assessment visits and wear an activity monitor for 7 days during each trimester. Compensation is provided.
STUDY PURPOSE
Increasing activity levels during pregnancy may lead to improved health, but researchers do not fully understand the best ways to reduce sitting time in pregnant women. The purpose of this study is to help pregnant women change their sitting behaviors and to find out if sitting less can improve pregnancy outcomes. Researchers hope their findings lead to better health for women in the future.
COULD THIS STUDY BE RIGHT FOR YOU?
- Ages 18-45
- In first trimester of pregnancy (less than 13 weeks)
- Sit a lot throughout the day
WHAT PARTICIPANTS CAN EXPECT
Participants will complete three online assessments during pregnancy. During the assessments, participants will be asked to complete questionnaires and wear an activity monitor for 7 days in each trimester. Eligible participants will be randomly assigned (like the flip of a coin) to either the SPRING intervention group or to a no-intervention group. The SPRING intervention group includes virtual health coaching, an adjustable workstation, and a supportive community group. The study team will also use medical records to collect details about participants’ pregnancy such as weight, blood pressure, glucose tolerance test, and pregnancy outcomes.
IRB: STUDY20110193
- Sedentary Behavior Reduction in Pregnancy Intervention (SPRING) StudyMEET THE RESEARCHER

Bethany Gibbs
Bethany Barone Gibbs, PhD, is associate professor in the Department of Health and Human Development at the University of Pittsburgh. Her research covers a range of topics related to health and activity levels. A Fellow of the American Heart Association, Dr. Gibbs is passionate about finding ways to help people increase their activity levels.