Project Summary

Liisa Galea, Ph.D. (Independent Investigator 2005) of University of British Columbia, aims to study the role of reduced estrogen and increased levels of the stress hormone cortisol in the brain as contributors to post-partum depression. The cause of post-partum depression remains unknown, but as there are large fluctuations in hormones during pregnancy and the post-partum period, and that hormones appear to be involved in depression, disturbances in estrogen and cortisol probably are involved post-partum depression. Women report more depression when they are in a low estrogen state (i.e. post-menopausal and post-partum). The pregnancy to post-birth transition also involves a dramatic estrogen reduction. In this proposal, Dr. Galea will investigate how reduced estrogen and increased cortisol may affect both behavior--such as the inability to feel pleasure, depression, memory problems and heightened stress--and measures of cell growth in the hippocampus. Results may lead to a better understanding of the mechanisms and possible treatments for post-partum depression.

Program Area: MOOD DISORDERS\Unipolar\Postpartum Depression

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