FeaturedNeurosciencePsychology·January 30, 2025·6 min readBlood Test May Predict Postpartum Depression Through Hormone LevelsWomen who develop postpartum depression (PPD) may have distinct neuroactive steroid levels during the third trimester of pregnancy. A study found that those with PPD had lower levels of pregnanolone, which reduces stress, and higher levels of isoallopregnanolone, which increases stress.Read More
FeaturedNeurosciencePsychology·October 2, 2024·7 min readNew Therapy Improves Depression in FathersA new study shows that a group parenting intervention significantly reduces male postpartum depression (PPD) in Pakistani fathers, with over 70% of participants experiencing full remission of symptoms. The program, "Learning Through Play Plus Dads," also improved child development and strengthened relationships within families.Read More
FeaturedNeurosciencePsychology·September 22, 2024·4 min readBrain Activity May Help Predict Risk of Postpartum DepressionNew research suggests that increased activity in the brain's amygdala during pregnancy may indicate a higher risk of postpartum depression. A study comparing pregnant and non-pregnant women found that those with higher amygdala activity struggled more with emotional regulation and reported more depression symptoms.Read More
FeaturedNeurosciencePsychology·May 26, 2024·7 min readGut Bacteria Gas Linked to Pregnancy Hormone, Mood Regulation, and PPDResearchers discovered that gut bacteria produce a hormone involved in pregnancy and postpartum depression treatment by modifying steroids in bile. This research highlights the microbiome's role as an endocrine organ influencing human health.Read More
FeaturedNeurosciencePsychology·April 10, 2024·7 min readInnovative Supplement Prevents Postpartum BluesA new study introduces a natural supplement that significantly reduces postpartum blues and depression symptoms. The four-year study demonstrated that the supplement, taken shortly after childbirth, prevents the onset of postpartum blues in 66% of participants and protects against clinical postpartum depression six months later.Read More
FeaturedNeurosciencePsychology·October 20, 2023·2 min readDad’s Postpartum Depression: Hidden Risk for Childhood AdversitiesResearch reveals that a father's depression during a child's first year can lead to increased odds of the child experiencing multiple adverse events by age 5. Adverse childhood experiences have lasting impacts, including health and academic challenges.Read More
FeaturedGeneticsNeurosciencePsychology·October 19, 2023·5 min readPost Partum Depression May Have Genetic RootsResearchers explore the genetic underpinnings of postpartum depression (PPD). Their results reveal that 14% of PPD variability is due to common genetic factors. The study also found that PPD's genetic architecture significantly aligns with other psychiatric and hormonal conditions. GABAergic neurons, specifically in the thalamus and hypothalamus, were identified as key areas for future PPD research.Read More
FeaturedNeurosciencePsychology·May 17, 2023·5 min readCould Reaction to Hormonal Birth Control Predict Postpartum Depression?A new study indicates a connection between hormonal birth control use and increased risk of postpartum depression. Women who experienced depressive episodes after starting hormonal birth control were found to be at higher risk of developing postpartum depression compared to those who suffered depression unrelated to hormonal birth control.Read More
FeaturedNeurosciencePsychology·February 17, 2023·3 min readMothers With Depression Take Longer to Respond to Their ChildrenMothers who experience depression take longer to respond to their children during a back-and-forth conversation.Read More
FeaturedNeurosciencePsychology·February 4, 2023·1 min readPostpartum Depression Is More Than Baby BluesSymptoms of postpartum depression usually begin to arise three weeks after the birth of a child and are defined by differences in mood and anxiety levels. PPD can last for a year or longer. Baby blues, by contrast, typically last for two weeks.Read More
FeaturedNeurosciencePsychology·January 27, 2023·4 min readA Young Mother Is Accused of Killing Her Children: What Is Postpartum Depression and Psychosis?Researchers discuss how postnatal depression and psychosis can lead some mothers to commit violent acts against or even murder their young children.Read More
FeaturedNeurosciencePsychology·December 2, 2022·6 min readPrenatal Wellness Classes Cut Moms’ Depression in Half up to Eight Years LaterPregnant women who participated in group wellness classes for eight weeks were half as likely to suffer depression eight years later compared to women who did not attend the classes.Read More
