The effect of omega-3 fatty acid use on women’s mental health in postpartum depression: a systematic review and meta-analysis study

Abstract

The postpartum period is a period in which the mother experiences significant anatomical, physiological, and psychological changes as well as the transition to parenthood and assumes new roles and responsibilities1,2. In addition to the rapidly changing hormones and physiological state with childbirth, the responsibilities imposed on the mother, being a mother for the first time, lack of social support, lack of spousal support, and problems related to infant care can increase the risk of depression3,4.

Postpartum depression (PPD) causes a loss of physical and mental energy in the mother, negatively affecting her family, work, and social life and decreasing her quality of life. The worldwide prevalence of PPD is 15%, and this rate varies between 12.5 and 42.7% in Turkey5,6. Early diagnosis and treatment of PPD are important to protect maternal and infant health. Untreated PPD can turn into a progressive and chronic disease and cause increased mortality and morbidity in both mother and infant7,8. The main approach in the treatment of PPD is psychotherapy in combination with medication, but medication has many unknown effects on breast milk. The use of medication in the treatment of PPD reduces the amount of milk in the nursing mother and may cause side effects such as sedation, respiratory arrest, and neurobehavioral disorders in the infant2. Since the safety of drug use in the treatment of PPD is controversial, the effects of some nutrients in the prevention or alleviation of PPD are being investigated7,8.

It is known that adequate and balanced nutrition of the mother in the postpartum period is a basic requirement for the protection and development of mental health. It is emphasized that especially omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin B12, vitamin D, selenium, and iodine consumption are important for healthy mental health9. In the latest reports of the World Health Organization, the importance of seafood between pregnancy and mental health is emphasized10. In studies in the literature, it is recommended to take fish oils containing omega-3 fatty acids, which are an important nutrient in preventing PPD or alleviating its effects, by consuming fish or as a dietary supplement11,12. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of omega-3 fatty acid use on women's mental health in postpartum depression by systematic review and meta-analysis method.