A recent study has provided key insights into the link between postpartum depression and brain changes. Researchers conducted MRIs on 88 first-time mothers, comparing their brain scans to those of 30 women who had never given birth. The results showed that pregnant women experienced reduced volume in areas associated with emotional processing, such as the amygdala and hippocampus.
However, pregnant women experiencing depression symptoms displayed increased volume in the amygdala, a region involved in emotional regulation. The study found that those with moderate to severe depression symptoms during late pregnancy had larger increases in amygdala volume, correlating with greater symptom severity.
Additionally, increased hippocampal volumes were linked to difficult or stressful birth experiences. This suggests that stress can alter brain structure and function, potentially driving the observed changes. Predisposing factors such as fear of childbirth or a history of mental disorders may also contribute to these findings. The study highlights the importance of acknowledging the potential impact of negative emotions on postpartum depression and the need for targeted support for new mothers.
Source: https://www.newser.com/story/365263/postpartum-depression-may-be-visible-in-the-brain.html