Third trimester physiological hypercortisolemia may protect from postpartum depression and stress

This study was aimed to evaluate the impact of physiological alterations in cortisol milieu on mood changes during late pregnancy and postpartum.

A total of 77 healthy pregnant subjects were prospectively evaluated after 36 weeks of gestation and at 3-4 weeks postpartum. Free cortisol (FC) was calculated using Coolen's equation and the free cortisol index (FCI) was defined as serum Total cortisol/Cortisol-binding globulin. Concurrently, status of depression, anxiety and stress were graded using Beck Depression Inventory, Beck Anxiety Inventory and Perceived Stress Scale. Statistical analysis was performed and p<0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Higher FC levels during late pregnancy were associated with lower scores on stress and depression early postpartum, albeit the latter was not statistically significant. Additionally, as FCI increased during late pregnancy both the scores on stress and depression decreased during early postpartum.

Increased cortisol levels during the latter periods of pregnancy may have long-lasting protective effects. They may enable the mother to cope with the changing and demanding conditions during postpartum.