Gut microbiota: a perspective for postpartum depression

Abstract

Maternal postpartum depression, one of the most prevalent and incapacitating side effects of motherhood, is frequently underdiagnosed and undertreated. However, treatment results are still far from ideal. It has recently come to light that dietary changes are linked to changes in gut flora, which raises health risks and makes people more susceptible to a number of diseases. The gut microbiota plays a significant regulating role in the progression of psychiatric illnesses such postpartum depression. Probiotics and prebiotics have recently acquired popularity in studies on mental health and disease. In this review, the authors explore the connection between postpartum depression and gut microbiota, risk factors and how probiotic bacteria work to lessen symptoms, as well as the possibility of using probiotic bacteria as a useful postpartum depression therapy component. © 2023 MA Healthcare Ltd.