Central OC Times

A University of California, Irvine-led study has found evidence of a potential link between patterns of changes in placental corticotropin-releasing hormone (pCRH) and symptoms of postpartum depression. Lead author Isabel F. Almeida emphasized the importance of understanding the causes of postpartum depression, stating, “One in 5 women report experiencing elevated depressive symptoms within the year after giving birth.”

The study, published in Psychoneuroendocrinology, followed 173 women of diverse backgrounds throughout pregnancy and the year after childbirth. Blood samples were taken at three prenatal visits, and a questionnaire was administered postpartum to track depressive symptoms. Almeida highlighted the significance of their approach, stating, “This person-centered approach allowed us to identify and compare subgroups of individuals and their trajectories at a more granular level over pregnancy alongside postpartum data.”

The research revealed that pCRH levels varied among women during pregnancy, with some falling into one of three groups. Almeida noted that women in the accelerated pCRH group recorded marginally higher depressive symptoms compared to those in the typical and flat groups. She suggested that pCRH trajectories may influence postpartum depressive symptoms, calling for further exploration into the relationship between stress response and postpartum mental health.

Funding for the study was provided by the National Institute of Mental Health Biobehavioral Issues in Mental and Physical Health Program, a UCI Chancellor’s ADVANCE Postdoctoral Fellowship, and a Eugene V. Cota-Robles Fellowship.

The UC Irvine-led study sheds light on the dynamic physiological changes during pregnancy and their potential impact on postpartum mental health. The findings could aid in the early identification of at-risk mothers, contributing to improved maternal and family well-being.