Oxytocin level in pregnancy predicts postpartum depression severity

(Northwestern University) Higher oxytocin levels in the third trimester of pregnancy predicts the severity of postpartum depression symptoms in women who previously suffered from depression, reports a new study. The finding indicates the potential for finding biomarkers to predict depressive symptoms postpartum and begin preventive treatment. Depression biomarkers should be screened in pregnancy, just like gestational diabetes, scientists said.
Source: EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health - Category: Global & Universal Source Type: news