Survey study, 2019
Why might depression develop when women stop breastfeeding?
This review proposes that hormonal changes during weaning may trigger depression in some women. A brain chemical normally calming anxiety may work differently during weaning, worsening mood instead.
What they did
Researchers reviewed scientific literature on how hormones change during weaning and its link to late-onset depression after childbirth.
What they found
A brain chemical called allopregnanolone normally reduces anxiety. But during weaning, it fluctuates similarly to drug withdrawal, which may paradoxically worsen depression in vulnerable women. This happens alongside the return of menstrual cycles.
What it means for you
Some women may be vulnerable to depression when breastfeeding ends because brain chemicals change in a way that worsens mood rather than improves it. This is a proposed explanation, not yet proven with research studies.
About the study
- Original title
- GABA A dysregulation as an explanatory model for late-onset postpartum depression associated with weaning and resumption of menstruation
- Authors
- Burke CS, Susser LC, Hermann AD
- Journal
- Archives of women's mental health
- Year
- 2019
- Study design
- Survey study
- What was tested
- None
- Read the paper
- doi.org/10.1007/s00737-018-0871-9
Topics
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