About the Study

Born in Scotland in the 2020s is a study that aims to collect information (data) from a group (called a cohort) of pregnant mothers and their baby/babies during the pregnancy and at birth. This type of study is called a birth cohort study.

We know from other birth cohort studies that the health and wellbeing of women during pregnancy can affect the health and wellbeing of their babies, both during development in the womb and whilst growing in childhood. In this study, we hope to collect data which will help medical professionals give better care to pregnant women and babies, which will make a positive difference to future families.   

In this pilot (initial) study we want to find out the best way to set up this new birth cohort in Scotland. A pilot study means it is a small-scale study to help us decide how best to set up a larger study. 

What happens if I take part?

We plan to use routinely collected data and biological samples where possible so that you don’t have to do anything extra to take part in the study.

We intend to enrol about 1000 women into this pilot study and use the findings to plan a much larger study across the whole of Scotland.

We may also ask you if we can collect some additional samples from you and/or your baby at the time of birth (such as a blood sample or placenta), or invite you to take part in other smaller studies but these are optional and you can still be a part of this study without joining additional studies. If you decide you would like to take part in any additional studies, we will provide you with more detailed information at the time, about exactly what is involved and we will be sure to get your informed consent.

How will the recruitment work?

The Born in Scotland in the 2020s pilot study is trialling two different methods of recruitment at different times, to see which works better.

Opt Out:

• You will receive information about the study when booking a pregnancy, letting you know that you are automatically enrolled. There will also be information on how to contact the study team to let them know if you do NOT wish to take part.

Opt In:

• You will see an advert on social media and click through to let the study team know you wish to take part.

Find out how to join the study 

How will my data be used?

The Born in Scotland in the 2020s study is working in partnership with the Data Trust Initiative. A data trust is a mechanism for individuals to take the data rights that are set out in law, and pool these into an organisation - a trust - in which trustees make decisions about data use on their behalf.

Data Trust Initiative (this link will take you to a different website)

The 'Born in Scotland Data Trust' will develop an infrastructure for trustworthy data stewardship around the study. Stewarding healthcare, administrative and social data collected from pregnant women and their children, this pilot project will explore how data trusts can give research participants, including young people, a voice in decisions about data use.

Contact us for more information