STORK Study | UC Baby Partners with UBC & Dalhousie University

UC Baby - Sex during Pregnancy - STORK research study

In the dynamic landscape of prenatal care and parental support, UC Baby proudly announces an innovative collaboration with two of Canada’s esteemed academic institutions—the University of British Columbia (UBC) and Dalhousie University. This initiative propels an exciting journey that can redefine and elevate the research into the challenges faced by couples as they navigate through the changes and how those affect their comfort level in having sex during pregnancy.

This partnership marks the beginning of an exciting journey aimed at revolutionizing the transition into parenthood through the pioneering STORK study, a transformative research initiative designed to explore and enhance sexual well-being among couples on the profound journey to becoming parents.

Why the STORK Study Matters: Parenthood as a Major Life Change and How That Affects Sexual Relationships during Pregnancy

The journey to parenthood, while filled with joy, often brings unforeseen challenges, notably shifts in the couple’s sexual relationship. The STORK study addresses the crucial aspect of maintaining a healthy sexual life during significant life changes, including navigating sex during pregnancy and adjusting to sex after a baby.

By focusing on testing the first online couple-based program designed to strengthen couples’ sexual relationships across the transition to parenthood, the STORK study is a vital step forward in supporting emotional and sexual health during this pivotal time.

UC Baby’s Role in STORK Study

With 28 clinics across Canada, UC Baby stands as a pillar of support for expecting families, offering an unparalleled glimpse into the miracle of life with their advanced 3D/4D ultrasound technology. Our commitment to fostering a supportive and informative environment for parents-to-be makes us the perfect partner for the STORK study‘s recruitment efforts.

UC Baby’s widespread presence and trusted reputation in the community offer a unique opportunity to reach a broad audience of eligible and interested clients who could greatly benefit from participating in this study.

Participation in the STORK Study

Eligibility for the STORK study is inclusive and diverse:

Couples who are pregnant with their first child.
One partner is ≤ 22 weeks pregnant.
Welcomes individuals of all genders, bodies, and sexual orientations.
Couples who have had previous pregnancies but do not live with a child may participate if they meet other criteria.

What's Involved?

Participants in the STORK study will engage in 5 online modules during pregnancy and 1 at 2 months postpartum, alongside 2 online surveys. This engagement provides couples free access to the STORK program and compensates them with up to $66 CAD per couple for their participation.

How to Get Involved

For those interested in this transformative initiative focused on enhancing understanding and support around sex during pregnancy and the transition to parenthood, getting involved is straightforward. Simply contact your nearest UC Baby location. By participating, you contribute to your personal journey and aid in advancing research that supports future parents through similar transitions.

Participate in the STORK Study and be part of this paid online research.

This collaborative effort among UC Baby, The University of British Columbia, and Dalhousie University symbolizes our commitment to addressing the holistic needs of couples stepping into the world of parenthood. By emphasizing sexual well-being alongside prenatal care, this partnership underscores the importance of nurturing all facets of a couple’s relationship during this transformative period.

Join us in this vital study and be a catalyst for a future where the transition to parenthood is not just about caring for the new baby but also about maintaining a healthy, loving, and supportive partnership.