Meta-analysis of the association between gut microbiota and postpartum depression

Aug 28, 2025Journal of psychosomatic obstetrics and gynaecology

Link between gut bacteria and postpartum depression: a combined analysis

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Abstract

Twelve studies indicated that α-Proteobacteria is a significant risk factor for postpartum depression (PPD) with an odds ratio of 1.19.

Specific gut bacteria imbalances are associated with postpartum depression (PPD).
Protective gut bacteria include Bifidobacterium, Ruminococcaceae, Prevotellaceae, Veillonellaceae, and Clostridia, with odds ratios of 0.82, 0.88, 0.89, 0.83, and 0.84, respectively.
Included studies demonstrated low heterogeneity and a low risk of publication bias.
The link between α-Proteobacteria and PPD may involve inflammatory responses.
Beneficial gut microbiota may protect against PPD through neurotransmitter regulation, short-chain fatty acid metabolism, and interactions between the gut and brain.

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OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to explore the association between gut microbiota and postpartum depression (PPD) through meta-analysis, providing a basis for effective clinical preventive interventions..

METHODS: Systematic searches were conducted in English databases (Cochrane Library, Embase, Web of Science, PubMed) for studies published up to April 2025. Literature screening used a double-blind method, and quality assessment was performed with the AHRQ methodological tool evaluating 11 core dimensions. Meta-analysis was conducted using STATA 18.0 software on eligible studies.

RESULTS: Twelve studies were included. α-Proteobacteria was a significant risk factor for PPD (OR = 1.19, 95%CI: 1.11-1.28, < 0.05). Protective factors included Bifidobacterium (OR = 0.82), Ruminococcaceae (OR = 0.88), Prevotellaceae (OR = 0.89), Veillonellaceae (OR = 0.83), and Clostridia (OR = 0.84). Included studies showed low heterogeneity, with robust results and low publication bias risk. p

CONCLUSION: PPD is closely linked to specific gut microbiota imbalances. α-Proteobacteria may increase PPD risk via inflammatory responses, while beneficial microbiota exert protective effects through neurotransmitter regulation, short-chain fatty acid metabolism, and gut-brain axis modulation. Gut microbiota could serve as a target for PPD intervention and prevention.