Oxytocin
- for Postpartum
Depression
Oxytocin for Postpartum Depression, May 2011
A new
study has shown pregnant women who have lower
levels of the hormone Oxytocin, may be at greater
risk to develop postpartum depression.
Oxytocin
has been called the "cuddle hormone" or "hormone of
love" for its ability to foster feelings of bonding
and also to produce more frequent , powerful orgasms
in women. Oxytocin has also been linked to
parenting behaviors.
The new
study, performed by researchers at the University of
Basel in Switzerland, explores the relationship
between oxytocin levels during pregnancy and
postpartum depression, which effects as many as 20%
of women.
Gunther
Meinlschmidt, PhD, was the lead researcher on this
study at the University. The study measured the
oxytocin levels of 73 healthy, pregnant women,
during the third trimester of pregnancy. The women
were given written tests during pregnancy and again,
two weeks after giving birth, to determine their
risk of postpartum depression. Based on their test
scores, 14 women were found to be at risk of
postpartum depression. Lower oxytocin levels prior
to giving birth were also associated with the 14
women.
While
this study is very new, it may be a breakthrough in
treating postpartum depression. Oxytocin nasal
spray, such as Vitocin may help relieve some
symptoms of postpartum depression.
The full
results of the study have been published in the
journal Neuropsychopharmacology.
Symptoms of Postpartum Depression
Experiencing stress or moodiness after giving birth
is normal. However, if these feelings last for more
than a few weeks, it's important to seek help, as
these symptoms not only effect the mother , but also
the child.
Postpartum depression can include negative feelings
toward the baby, lack of motivation, mood swings,
appetite and weight changes and even thoughts of
suicide.
SOURCES: Skrundz, M. Neuropsychopharmacology,
online, May 11, 2011
Gunther Meinlschmidt, PhD, assistant professor of
psychology, University of Basel, Switzerland.
