From The Conversation · Benjamin L. Hankin · · 1m 10s
Treating pregnancy depression may boost baby brain development
New research shows treating maternal depression during pregnancy can improve infant brain development.
In brief
New research shows treating maternal depression during pregnancy can improve infant brain development. Treating depression in pregnant women with MOMCare talk therapy leads to better emotional regulation in babies by birth. Originally reported by The Conversation.
Depression affects 1 in 5 pregnant women
Depression affects 1 in 5 women during pregnancy, raising risks of complications and child mental health issues.
MOMCare talk therapy for depression
MOMCare is a short course of talk therapy designed to treat prenatal depression and build social support.
Study design and participants
234 pregnant women with depression symptoms were randomly assigned to MOMCare or mental health education and referrals.
MOMCare improves pregnancy outcomes
Women receiving MOMCare were more likely to carry their baby to term, linked to better child health and development.
Brain imaging shows differences
Infants whose mothers received MOMCare had a 5% smaller hippocampus volume at birth compared to the control group.
Better emotional regulation in babies
Babies with smaller hippocampal volume at birth responded less negatively to unfamiliar experiences, indicating better emotional regulation.
The headline
Treating depression in pregnant women with MOMCare talk therapy leads to better emotional regulation in babies by birth.
