Elevated neutrophil levels linked to postpartum depression in twin pregnancies

Overview

This study identifies significant associations between elevated neutrophil counts, increased lymphocyte-to-monocyte ratios (LMR), and decreased platelet-to-lymphocyte ratios (PLR) with symptoms of postpartum depression (PPD) in women with twin pregnancies.

Background

Postpartum depression (PPD) affects a substantial proportion of women, particularly those with twin pregnancies, where the incidence may be higher due to increased physical and psychological stress. This study explores the relationship between routine inflammatory biomarkers and PPD symptoms in this specific population.

Data Highlights

Key Findings

• 17.14% of women in the study exhibited symptoms of postpartum depression (PPD).
• Women with PPD symptoms had significantly higher counts of neutrophils, lymphocytes, and monocytes.
• Higher neutrophil count was independently associated with PPD symptoms (OR = 1.46).
• Higher LMR was also linked to PPD symptoms (OR = 1.36).
• Lower PLR was associated with PPD symptoms (OR = 0.98).
• Lymphocyte count showed a borderline protective effect against PPD symptoms.

Clinical Implications

The findings indicate associations between inflammatory biomarkers such as neutrophil counts and derived ratios with postpartum depression in women with twin pregnancies.

Conclusion

The study highlights associations between immune-inflammatory factors and postpartum depression among women with twin pregnancies.

Related Resources & Content

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2. BMC Psychiatry (Springer), 2025 -- The effect of Lactobacillus casei on postpartum depression: a randomized controlled trial
3. Archives of Gynecology and Obstetrics, 2026 -- Trends and adverse pregnancy outcomes associated with post-traumatic stress disorder: a population-based study of delivery hospitalisations
4. Draft Recommendation: Perinatal Depression: Preventive Interventions | United States Preventive Services Taskforce
5. BMC Psychiatry (Springer) — Postpartum depression among newly delivered mothers based on postnatal newborn care
6. Draft Recommendation: Perinatal Depression: Preventive Interventions | United States Preventive Services Taskforce
7. Association of immune-inflammatory biomarkers during pregnancy and the postpartum period with postpartum depression symptoms: A cross-sectional and longitudinal retrospective analysis - ScienceDirect
8. Risk and timing of postpartum depression in parents of twins compared to parents of singletons - University of Southern Denmark