May 13, 2011

expert reaction to new research about post-partum depression as published in Neuropsychopharmacology

Concentration of a particular hormone during pregnancy linked to incidence of post-partum depression.

Dr Carmine Pariante, Institute of Psychiatry, Kings College London, and Consultant Perinatal Psychiatrist at the South London and Maudsley NHS Trust, said:

“This study shows for the first time that levels of oxytocin – the ‘bonding’ hormone – are reduced in pregnancy in women who will later develop post-partum depression.

“Interestingly, the authors also find that depressive symptoms during pregnancy are highly correlated with post-partum depression. Therefore, this study confirms the notion that depression in the perinatal period often starts in pregnancy, and has profound effects on the mother-child relationship by disrupting key biological mechanisms underlying this relationship.

“Furthermore, this study once again stresses the importance of treating assertively depressive symptoms during pregnancy, through psychological therapies, social support and, when needed, antidepressants, in order to avoid such negative long-term consequences for the mothers and the babies.”

Plasma Oxytocin Concentration during Pregnancy is associated with Development of Postpartum Depression by Marta Skrund et al., published in Neuropscyhopharmacology on Wednesday 11 May.