Mood changes in puerperium, and plasma tryptophan and cortisol concentrations. Issue 6078 (2nd July 1977)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Handley, S L; Dunn, T L; Baker, J M; Cockshott, C; Gould, S
• Is Part Of: BMJ. Volume 2:Issue 6078(1977)
• Page Start: 18
• Page End: 20
• Publication Date: 1977-07-02
• Subjects: Medicine -- Periodicals; Medicine -- Periodicals; Medicine; Periodicals; 610
• DOI: 10.1136/bmj.2.6078.18
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0007-1447

Abstract

Abstract : Eighteen women aged 18-31 years were studied daily during the second to fifth postpartum days to assess mood changes and plasma tryptophan and cortisol concentrations. Psychiatric rating scales, clinical interviews, and published biochemical methods were used. Over the period plasma free tryptophan concentrations tended to rise and plasma cortisol concentrations to decline. There was a positive correlation between plasma free tryptophan concentrations and mood state.