Association between Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale and Serum Levels of Ketone Bodies and Vitamin D, Thyroid Function, and Iron Metabolism

Suicide due to postpartum depression is the most common perinatal-related death and is a social concern in Japan. Nutritional deficiencies during pregnancy may contribute to postpartum depression; therefore, we investigated the relationship between postpartum depression and nutritional status during pregnancy and postpartum. We focused specifically on ketone bodies because they are known to protect brain cells. The relationship between the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) scores and the serum levels of ketone bodies and vitamin D, thyroid function, and iron metabolism was examined. Overall, 126 pregnant women were identified for the study, and 99 were eventually included in the analysis. We defined an EPDS score of >= 9 as being positive for postpartum depression, and serum ketone levels were found to be higher in the group with an EPDS score of >= 9 during the second trimester; however, there were no other significant findings. We may be able to predict postpartum depression from a pregnant woman's serum ketone levels in the second trimester. There was a positive correlation between the EPDS scores at 3 days and 1 month postpartum (r = 0.534, p < 0.001). EPDS scores assessed in the early postpartum period may be useful for the timely detection of postpartum depression.

Automated summary

Suicide due to postpartum depression is a major concern in Japan. This study examined the relationship between postpartum depression and nutritional status, specifically focusing on ketone bodies. Higher serum ketone levels were observed in pregnant women with postpartum depression during the second trimester, suggesting a potential link. The EPDS scores assessed in the early postpartum period may be useful for timely detection of postpartum depression.