The Role of Brain Derived Neurotrophic Factor in Depression Among Pregnant Women with Nausea and Vomiting of Pregnancy

Abstract

Background & Objective: Nausea and Vomiting of Pregnancy (NVP) is a common condition affecting pregnant women and may contribute to significant physical discomfort as well as psychological disturbances, including depression. Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF), a neurotrophin involved in neuroplasticity, stress regulation, mood modulation, and cognitive function, has been implicated in depressive disorders. Materials & Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted on 88 pregnant women. Serum BDNF concentrations were measured using Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA). Depressive symptoms were assessed using the Patient Health Questionnaire 9 (PHQ-9), while the severity of NVP was evaluated using the Pregnancy-Unique Quantification of Emesis questionnaire. Pearson’s or Spearman’s correlation analyses and chi-square tests were applied to examine the associations between the variables. Results: The mean age of participants was 29.94±5.60 years. Most respondents were multigravida (60%) and had an income below the regional minimum wage (83%). Mild depression was observed in 70% of participants, while 66% experienced moderate NVP. Maternal age was significantly associated with depression severity, NVP severity, and BDNF levels (P<0.001). Lower BDNF levels were strongly associated with higher depression scores and more severe NVP. Conclusion: Reduced BDNF levels are closely associated with both increased NVP severity and antenatal depression, suggesting that BDNF may serve as a potential biomarker linking physical symptoms and psychological well-being during pregnancy.

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