Understanding the Causes of Perinatal Depression in Mothers

Perinatal depression is a common mental health condition affecting mothers during pregnancy and after childbirth. It is characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, exhaustion, sleep and appetite disturbances, and a loss of interest in daily activities. A recent groundbreaking study has explored how these symptoms develop and what factors influence their trajectory. The research highlights that a mother's sensitivity to both internal cues and external stimuli can significantly increase the likelihood of experiencing depression. Additionally, the level of support from a partner during pregnancy plays a vital protective role.

The perinatal period, spanning from the 22nd week of pregnancy to seven days after delivery, involves substantial physiological and psychological changes, making it a challenging phase for many women. Between 10% and 25% of women are vulnerable to perinatal depression, which may begin during pregnancy and last up to a year postpartum. Despite well-established symptoms, researchers are now focusing on understanding how these symptoms evolve over time.

A pioneering longitudinal study, supported by the BIAL Foundation and conducted by researchers from Italy's G. d'Annunzio University and the University of Pavia, tracked 88 mothers without clinical diagnosis across four key phases: late pregnancy, and at three, six, and nine months postpartum. The study examined how individual factors like Sensory Processing Sensitivity (SPS)—a trait involving heightened awareness and reactivity to internal and external stimuli—and social support influence depression trajectories.

Findings from this research, including insights published in Frontiers in Psychology, reveal that mood tends to decline immediately after childbirth but gradually improves. However, mothers with high sensory sensitivity and limited partner support are more susceptible to negative emotional states. The study also indicates that prenatal depression can affect infants, making them more prone to negative affect and emotional reactivity, thereby acting as early markers of emotional regulation issues.

Maria Spinelli emphasizes that understanding these factors can aid in developing targeted support programs for mothers, promoting better emotional adjustments during and after pregnancy. Encouraging partner involvement from early pregnancy is crucial, as it helps foster supportive family environments. Moreover, promoting affective interactive touch postpartum can strengthen mother-infant bonds, reduce stress, and support emotional development for both.

Overall, this research underscores the importance of comprehensive support systems for mothers to help mitigate the impact of perinatal depression on both the mother and the infant, paving the way for healthier family dynamics.