Maternal Stress & Depression
Perinatal stress and depression are under-appreciated and under-diagnosed, yet potentially easily preventable and treatable conditions. Based on current literature and population statistics, approximately 17% postpartum women reported stress and 13% report depression. However, depression rates range from 10-25% based on geographic location within the U.S. These statistics are likely lower than actual rates; one out of five women report never being asked by their healthcare providers.
Perinatal stress and depression are associated with less desirable infant outcomes. Additionally, experiencing these conditions during the postpartum period may affect the women’s ability to bond and lactate, and potentially change the immunomodulatory components of the human milk produced. By providing interventions early, it is possible to prevent or reduce stress and depression risk, which may favorably affect both the mother and infant.
The MIMI laboratory aims to assess the ability for accessible and feasible interventions to reduce postpartum stress and depression risk. We are secondarily evaluating the effects of postpartum stress and depression on maternal well-being, human milk composition, and infant outcomes.
Current intervention study on reducing maternal stress & depression risk
We are recruiting pregnant women during their 3rd trimester in the Palouse region and at our partner neonatal intensive care units (NICU) in Kootenai Health.
Vitamin D & Mindfulness Interventions
Vitamin D deficiency & insufficiency are prevalent in the general population and is associated with depression risk. Specifically, the relationship between vitamin D status and depression risk is strongest among pregnant and lactating women as shown in our publication.
Variations of the mindfulness-based stress reduction program have been studied in different populations in relation to stress, depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions with positive outcomes. Importantly, mindfulness interventions can reduce perceived stress and improve lactation outcomes.
In our intervention study, we aim to assess the timing, dosage of vitamin D, and type of mindfulness intervention that would reduce postpartum stress/depression, as well as beneficially modify human milk composition and infant outcomes.
Funding Sources
COBRE in Nutrition and Women’s Health
Research Project Lead
Institutional Development Award (IDeA) from the National Institute of General Medical Sciences of the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the NIH Office of Women’s Health and the NIH Office of Nutrition Research under grant #P20GM152304