Perimenopausal postpartum depression after conception by assisted reproductive technology.
BACKGROUND
Women conceiving after the onset of the menopausal transition may experience hormonal fluctuations that predispose them to postpartum depression. Conception by assisted reproductive technology (ART) may increase this risk.


OBJECTIVE
This case report highlights the hormonal and pathophysiological changes that may contribute to the development of postpartum depression during perimenopause.


METHODS
The authors report on the case of a perimenopausal woman who developed postpartum depression after conception by ART.


RESULTS
The patient responded well to antidepressant treatment, estrogen replacement, and psychotherapy.


CONCLUSIONS
Research into perimenopausal postpartum depression in the setting of ART may lead to improved screening and treatment for at-risk patients.
McIntosh
Michael D
MD
Weill Medical College of Cornell University, 21 Bloomingdale Road, White Plains, NY 10605, USA. mdm2006@med.cornell.edu
Ferrando
Stephen
S
D000279:Administration, Cutaneous; D018687:Antidepressive Agents, Second-Generation / Q000627:therapeutic use; D015928:Cognitive Behavioral Therapy / Q000379:methods; D003511:Cyclohexanols / Q000627:therapeutic use; D019052:Depression, Postpartum / Q000150:complications / Q000523:psychology* / Q000628:therapy; D003865:Major Depressive Disorder / Q000150:complications / Q000523:psychology* / Q000628:therapy; D015914:Estrogen Replacement Therapy / Q000379:methods / Q000523:psychology; D004967:Estrogens / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000627:therapeutic use; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D006993:Hypnotics and Sedatives / Q000627:therapeutic use; D008875:Middle Aged; D047648:Perimenopause / Q000523:psychology*; D011613:Psychotherapy / Q000379:methods; D011725:Pyridines / Q000627:therapeutic use; D027724:Reproductive Techniques, Assisted / Q000523:psychology*; D007319:Sleep Initiation and Maintenance Disorders / Q000150:complications / Q000188:drug therapy; D000069470:Venlafaxine Hydrochloride; D000077334:Zolpidem
D018687:Antidepressive Agents, Second-Generation; D003511:Cyclohexanols; D004967:Estrogens; D006993:Hypnotics and Sedatives; D011725:Pyridines; D000069470:Venlafaxine Hydrochloride; D000077334:Zolpidem