Study shows insomnia therapy reduces postpartum depression: Sleeping for two
While many people assume that poor sleep during pregnancy is unavoidable, new research has shown that cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBTi) during pregnancy not only improves sleep patterns but also reduces postpartum depression.
Researchers from UBC’s Okanagan and Vancouver campuses, along with the University of Calgary, found that using CBTi during pregnancy can significantly lower postpartum depressive symptoms after childbirth.
“Early intervention is vital for both infant and parental mental health,” says Dr. Elizabeth Keys, an Assistant Professor at UBCO’s School of Nursing and co-author of the study. “Our research demonstrates that tackling insomnia can have lasting benefits for family well-being, aiding both parents and their children.”
CBTi is a therapeutic approach designed to identify and modify thoughts, behaviors, and sleep habits contributing to insomnia. The treatment involves reframing misconceptions and reshaping routines to improve sleep quality.
“CBTi is considered the gold standard for insomnia treatment and has consistently been linked to improvements in depression,” Dr. Keys explains. “Its effects are comparable to those of antidepressant medications, but with fewer side effects, making it a preferred option for many pregnant individuals.”
The study included 62 women, all assessed for insomnia and depressive symptoms, with half randomly assigned to receive CBTi and the other half serving as a control group.
“Our findings revealed that CBTi during pregnancy significantly enhanced sleep and reduced postpartum depressive symptoms,” says Dr. Keys. “This is incredibly promising news for parents struggling in the early weeks and months after childbirth.”
The results suggest that effective insomnia treatment during pregnancy may act as a protective measure against postpartum depression.
“Our study supports the growing body of evidence that treating insomnia during pregnancy is beneficial,” Dr. Keys adds. “We must explore ways to make this treatment more accessible to improve sleep health equity for pregnant individuals nationwide.”
The research underscores collaboration among Canadian researchers from UBC’s Vancouver and Okanagan campuses. Dr. Keys is based at UBCO, while Dr. Lianne M. Tomfohr-Madsen, a Canada Research Chair in Mental Health and Intersectionality, works at UBC Vancouver.
Both Dr. Keys and Dr. Tomfohr-Madsen are principal investigators on the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) Sleep Equity Reimagined team and are part of the Canadian Sleep Research Consortium.