Background:

Results from a recent meta-analysis suggest that low Vitamin D levels are associated with depression1. As pregnancy is a time for increased nutritional demands, precipitation of depression would be more likely during pregnancy if this hypothetical association were causal. Low vitamin D levels are common during pregnancy, particularly in high-risk groups.2,3,4 Some studies have reported an association between low vitamin D levels and depressive symptoms during pregnancy5,6 and in the postnatal period.7,8,9 However, other studies have not supported this hypothesis.10 Previous studies have been limited by sample size7,9, identification of depression10, or follow up time to development of symptoms.5,6,8

Aims:

*To determine the relationship between vitamin D (serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 and D2) and perinatal depression.

*To personally develop research skills in preparation for applying for research fellowships