Animal models of Postpartum Psychiatric Disorders

What is it about?

Although the postpartum period is typically associated with increased calmness and decreased response to stress in mothers, for a substantial percentage of mothers, it also represents a time period of risk for the development of mood and anxiety disorders, which not only affect the well-being of the mother but negatively impact the long-term health of the infant. Here, we describe the attempts that have been made in preclinical research to investigate these debilitating disorders.

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Why is it important?

Although the risk factors for these disorders, as well as normal peripartum-associated adaptations, are well-known, the underlying aetiology of postpartum psychiatric disorders remains poorly understood. This is due in part to a lack of research and the male-orientated preclinical research focus. We then discuss potential avenues of approach and state that these models have helped us to better understand postpartum psychiatric disorders but that more research emphasis is required.