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Natural probiotic linked to reduced postnatal depression in new mothers

Author
Newstalk ZB staff,
Publish Date
Wed, 18 Oct 2017, 5:15AM
Slykerman said this could be a breakthrough for the 10 to 15 percent of women affected by the disorder. (Photo \ Getty Images)
Slykerman said this could be a breakthrough for the 10 to 15 percent of women affected by the disorder. (Photo \ Getty Images)

Natural probiotic linked to reduced postnatal depression in new mothers

Author
Newstalk ZB staff,
Publish Date
Wed, 18 Oct 2017, 5:15AM

Research has found a natural probiotic taken during pregnancy can reduce postnatal depression and anxiety in new mothers.

In a world first, researchers at Auckland and Otago Universities found mothers who took the probiotic had significantly fewer symptoms of depression and anxiety after birth than those who took the placebo.

Lead author Dr Rebecca Slykerman said the probiotic is safe and cheap, and could be a major step in treating the disorder.

"Many women are reluctant to take anti-depressant medication while they are pregnant or breast feeding. Probiotics are potentially a really safe and effective way of either preventing or treating a really serious condition."

Slykerman said this could be a breakthrough for the 10 to 15 percent of women affected by the disorder.

"It's really significant because post natal depression and anxiety can increase the risk of a woman developing persistent depression. It's also a really distressing condition for women."

She said this is a big step in treating the disorder.

"It's potentially a safe, cost effective, easy to implement intervention that would reduce risk of depression and anxiety in the post natal period."

The probiotic, made by Fonterra, will have to be replicated in another study before it's recommended to mothers.

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