There is some limited evidence that intranasal oxytocin ameliorates postpartum depression. I am interested in publications, clinical anecdotes, personal reflections, etc.
I would think it would depend on why the woman is depressed. If she doesn't have the Oxytocin receptors then it may not work, even if it is tried.
I would think it would not depend on why the woman is depressed. It is means of no sense that Oxytocin receptors are not affecting to the body of postmartem then it may not work, even if it is tried.
In Sweden they give oxytocin spray to the mother of the new born to improve the breastfeeding process. For some women non-functioning breastfeeding is a stress factor. For some women low oxytocin level is a risk factor for post-partum blues. All the possible benefits of the hormon is worth finding out. The “cuddle hormone” or the “hormone of love,” oxytocin is known for its ability to foster feelings of bonding and attachment.
https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Ruth_Feldman/publication/5886519_Evidence_for_a_neuroendocrinological_foundation_of_human_affiliation_plasma_oxytocin_levels_across_pregnancy_and_the_postpartum_period_predict_mother-infant_bonding/links/09e415100f63af0b60000000.pdf
suggests that it would help
Article Evidence for a Neuroendocrinological Foundation of Human Aff...
Note possible iatrogenic effects:
See: Mah, B. L., Van IJzendoorn, M. H., Smith, R., & Bakermans-Kranenburg, M. J. (2013). Oxytocin in postnatally depressed mothers: its influence on mood and expressed emotion. Progress in Neuro-Psychopharmacology and Biological Psychiatry, 40, 267-272.
Dear Lewis,
there are papers on this issue. The paper suggested by Harry Freeman can be downloaded here:
Article A randomised controlled trial on intranasal oxytocin as an a...
Article The effect of oxytocin on attention to angry and happy faces...
Article The Effects of Intranasal Oxytocin Administration on Sensiti...
Article Oxytocin course over pregnancy and postpartum period and the...
Make sure that no matter what, the mother and baby spend time together each and every day in the postpartum period. Otherwise, the mother starts to grieve that she "lost" her baby.
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