Phytoestrogens are weak plant-derived estrogens that are structurally similar to estrogen hormones produced by the body. Â The phytoestrogens contained in soy-based products are called isoflavones. Â Because they have estrogenic activity, soy isoflavones have long been [...]
In early studies designed to identify specific risk factors for postpartum depression, unplanned pregnancy was identified as a relatively weak predictor of postpartum depression. Â But there are many different types of unplanned pregnancy. For example, [...]
 The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recently released recommendations on Screening for Depression in Adults. The Task Force recommended that clinicians screen ALL ADULTS for depression and noted that screening in the primary [...]
The active form of vitamin D is produced by the human body as a byproduct of natural sun exposure; it is also found in certain foods, including some kinds of fish, egg yolks, and fortified [...]
Interpersonal Psychotherapy (IPT) is a time-limited psychotherapy which is based on the theory that deficiencies or disruptions in interpersonal relationships play an important role in the emergence and persistence of depression. Â The primary goals of [...]
 Studies in animals and humans suggest that psychological distress experienced by mothers during pregnancy is associated with later neurodevelopmental problems in their offspring.  Project Ice Storm is one such study exploring the effect of [...]
During pregnancy, many women complain that they feel more distractible, more forgetful or less sharp than before pregnancy. A few years ago, we reviewed a study which demonstrated that performance on tests of spatial recognition [...]
 It’s only been a few days since Johns Hopkins released the preliminary results of a study on folate levels and autism, and we have already received calls and emails regarding the findings.  Unfortunately the [...]
Multiple studies have shown that routine medical care is not adequate when it comes to identifying and treating women with perinatal mood disorders. Â Universal screening can help to increase the identification of mothers with mood [...]
 The Good News:  According to the CDC, rates of teen pregnancy are falling  In the United States, 249,078 babies were born to women aged 15–19 years in 2014.  This represents a historic low for [...]
