This research study seeks to identify risk factors that might lead to postpartum depression in pregnant women who are currently depressed or have experienced major depression in the past. This knowledge will help us to better understand predictors of postpartum depression and enable us to draft guidelines for the identification of or prevention of postpartum depression. Participants in this research study are pregnant women ages 18-45 who are currently depressed or have experienced major depression in the past and whose mood is either currently fine or depressed. This study is funded by a grant from the National Institute of Mental Health.

Study Involvement

Women who volunteer to participate in this study will have their mood assessed at the time of enrollment, in the third trimester of pregnancy and for up to six months after childbirth.

Participants will also undergo hormone testing in the postpartum.