Source of Support:

National Institute of Mental Health

Participation:

Women who are in good physical health and are 18-40 years old may be eligible for this study. If the participant is pregnant, participation will begin after delivery. Participants may be eligible if they are currently breastfeeding. Participants must not be currently using any psychiatric medications. If participant is currently using hormonal contraception (birth control), she must be willing to discontinue use throughout the study.

Description:

This study is investigating whether postpartum women have unique changes in brain function that may lead to depression. Researchers plan to image brain serotonin receptors, dopamine receptors and brain blood flow in:

• Depressed postpartum women

• Nondepressed postpartum women

• Depressed nonpostpartum women

• Nondepressed nonpostpartum women

This study includes three to four study visits over a one- to two- month period. Study procedures include a physical examination, menstrual history interview, psychiatric evaluation, blood draws, urine collection, one magnetic resonance imaging (MRI scan), and one positron emissions test (PET). Participants will be compensated up to $350 for their time and effort upon completion of the study.

If you are interested in participation in this study, please call Lizz Omalley at (412) 586-9445 or via email at omalleyek@upmc.edu