Neuroactive Steroids and Perinatal Depression: a Review of Recent Literature

Purpose of Review: The purpose of this review is to provide a theoretical explanation and a review of the recent literature concerning the role of neuroactive steroids in perinatal depression, and to use this information to suggest future directions of research. Recent Findings: The bulk of the evidence on neuroactive steroids in perinatal depression concerns allopregnanolone. Recent studies have been mixed, with some studies finding a direct correlation between lower levels of allopregnanolone and increased depressive symptoms but other studies finding no relationship. Evidence concerning other neuroactive steroids and perinatal depression is sparse. Summary: Additional research is needed with larger sample sizes and better characterization across the perinatal period (rather than cross-sectionally). Because some studies point to a lag between neuroactive steroid dysregulation and subsequent symptoms, future research should consider interactions with other aspects of neuroactive steroid physiology, such as synthetic enzymes or receptor plasticity.