What was the study asking?

What is the evidence regarding the association between iron levels and antenatal and postpartum depression?

What did they find?

• Antenatal and postpartum anaemia are very common, and iron deficiency is the most common cause.
• Postpartum anaemia is associated with postpartum depression, fatigue and impaired concentration.

What is the take-home message?

Assessing iron levels and correcting suboptimal and deficient levels is an essential part of pregnancy and postpartum care for maternal and offspring health outcomes.