Neurotransmitter Dysregulation in Sleep and Circadian Rhythms: Implications for Postpartum Depression

Postpartum depression (PPD) is a major mental health disorder that affects mothers both emotionally and physically, hindering their ability to care for the child. Other neurotransmitter imbalances during the postpartum period include serotonin, dopamine, melatonin, GABA, and orexin, which result in disturbances in sleep. The reduction in serotonin concentration is related to mood and sleep, while altered dopamine levels are related to alertness and coordinating circadian rhythms. Further, women postpartum demonstrates higher melatonin levels and a subsequent neuronal excitation due to lesser functioning GABA-A receptors, which in addition combine to cause disturbances with sleep. This paper reviews the literature to analyze the effects of neurotransmitter disorders in sleep and circadian rhythm on postpartum depression. The review provides emerging treatment options for postpartum depression including selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), melatonin agonists, and benzodiazepines, which have shown promising results in relieving symptoms by modulating neurotransmitter pathways. However, more research needs to be undertaken in the field of non-pharmacological interventions, the long-term outcome of neurotransmitter dysregulation, and preventive measures during pregnancy that would go a long way toward improving overall outcomes for mothers as well as their infants.