Low Prenatal Vitamin D Metabolite Ratio and Subsequent Postpartum Depression Risk

Depression is a common complication of pregnancy and vitamin D deficiency is one biological risk factor for postpartum depression (PPD). We evaluated the ratio of 24,25(OH)₂D and 25(OH)D serum concentrations referred to as the Vitamin D Metabolite Ratio (VMR), a new candidate biomarker during pregnancyand its relationship with PPD. Women were enrolled in the first trimester of pregnancy and followed through four timepoints. A total of 89 women had complete depression, biomarker and demographic data and 34% were at risk for PPD (CES-D≥16). Stepwise multiple logistic regression models for PPD risk were carried out with eight predictors. Results showed that only lower VMR, OR = 1.43, 95% CI 1.10-1.86, p = 0.007, and Hispanic/Latina identification, OR = 3.83, 95% CI 1.44-10.92, p = 0.007 were significantly associated with higher PPD risk. Routine prenatal screening for vitamin D metabolites, particularly in Hispanic/Latina women, may identify women at risk for PPD.