A Meta-Analysis: The Neuroanatomical Association between Body Perception and Postpartum Depression in Women with Low Self-Esteem

Postpartum depression affects a strikingly large number of women who give birth every year. It is estimated that roughly 11-20% of women who give birth each year are diagnosed with postpartum depression (Postpartum Progress, 2013). Postpartum depression has been heavily studied over recent years, and much has come to be understood about the diagnosis. However, there is still more to be understood. Previous literature has shown that excess of gestational weight is associated with higher postpartum depression scores (Wright et al., 2013). In addition to increased risk of postpartum depression, these women are also at higher risk of developing decreased self-esteem and increased body dissatisfaction. ("Pregnancy: Physical and body changes," 2012, p. 667) The current study will be comparing fMRI’s taken from postpartum women, and men and women who experience body dissatisfaction and low self-esteem. These scans will be monitored for any overlapping areas of activation, as well as connectivity. It is possible that lower self-esteem that comes along with increased gestational weight gain, leads to altered perceptions of body image, which could be associated with postpartum depression development. In order to provide better medical care for women experiencing postpartum depression, research regarding factors of postpartum depression must be explored further. The current research is ongoing and further analysis will be taking place over spring term.