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Oxytocin and postpartum depression: A systematic review.
Taylor A Thul1, Elizabeth J Corwin2, Nicole S Carlson3
1Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing, Emory University, 1520 Clifton Road, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA.
Psychoneuroendocrinology
|July 20, 2020
Summary
This review found that higher levels of the hormone oxytocin (OT) may be linked to lower rates of postpartum depression (PPD). However, more research is needed on synthetic oxytocin
Area of Science:
- Neuroendocrinology
- Reproductive Psychiatry
- Maternal Mental Health
Background:
- Postpartum depression (PPD) affects many women, particularly in vulnerable groups.
- Oxytocin (OT), crucial for maternal functions, is investigated for its role in PPD.
- Synthetic oxytocin is commonly administered during childbirth.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the quality and reliability of existing literature on the relationship between oxytocin and PPD.
- To determine if current data sufficiently supports the strength of the oxytocin-PPD association.
Main Methods:
- A comprehensive literature search was conducted across five major databases in December 2018.
- Studies were assessed for quality using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale and risk of bias using Cochrane tools.
- Sixteen studies were analyzed, categorized by endogenous OT and synthetic OT administration.
Main Results:
- Eight of twelve studies on endogenous oxytocin suggested an inverse relationship with PPD symptoms.
- Plasma OT levels were the primary measurement method, with variations in lab techniques.
- Insufficient evidence exists to conclude on synthetic oxytocin's impact on PPD due to study heterogeneity and small sample sizes.
Conclusions:
- Evidence suggests a potential inverse correlation between endogenous oxytocin levels and postpartum depression.
- Further rigorous research is essential to understand the effects of synthetic oxytocin administration on PPD.
- Continued investigation is recommended to clarify the endogenous oxytocin-PPD relationship.
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