Actively Recruiting
The Association Between Gut Microbiota Diversity and Postpartum Depression
Led by Massachusetts General Hospital · Updated on 2026-01-15
30
Participants Needed
1
Research Sites
23 weeks
Total Duration
On this page
Sponsors
M
Massachusetts General Hospital
Lead Sponsor
N
National Institute on Aging (NIA)
Collaborating Sponsor
AI-Summary
What this Trial Is About
This study aims to examine whether naturally occurring bacteria in the gastrointestinal tract are associated with mood changes following childbirth, including postpartum depression. Biological samples will be collected before and after delivery to determine whether specific patterns in gut bacterial composition are linked to emotional states. The purpose of the research is to improve understanding of whether such microbial changes can help identify individuals at higher risk for postpartum depression, enabling earlier recognition and intervention.
CONDITIONS
Official Title
The Association Between Gut Microbiota Diversity and Postpartum Depression
Who Can Participate
Eligibility Criteria
You may qualify if you...
- Age 18 years or older
- Gestational age at least 36 weeks with planned cesarean delivery
- Ability to understand study procedures and provide informed consent
- Voluntary agreement to participate in the study
You will not qualify if you...
- Gastrointestinal disorders or recent antibiotic use that significantly alters gut microbiome
- Diagnosis of severe mental illness such as schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, bipolar disorder, or major depressive disorder with psychotic features
- Medication use during pregnancy known to influence gut microbiota, including antidepressants, antibiotics, or fish oil
- Refusal to provide rectal swab samples or inability to complete follow-up assessments
AI-Screening
AI-Powered Screening
Complete this quick 3-step screening to check your eligibility
Trial Site Locations
Total: 1 location
1
Meikun Wang
Boston, Massachusetts, United States, 02114
Actively Recruiting
Research Team
J
Jingping Wang, MD PhD
CONTACT
How is the study designed?
Study Type
OBSERVATIONAL
Masking
N/A
Allocation
N/A
Model
N/A
Primary Purpose
N/A
Number of Arms
2
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