Effects of combined preconception and prenatal myo-inositol, probiotics, and trace element supplementation on the outcomes of depressed mothers

Abstract

BACKGROUND

Perinatal depression affects 10%-20% of pregnant women and subsequently influences maternal health and fetal development. Concerns over the safety of antidepressants during pregnancy have prompted the exploration of nutritional interventions as adjunct therapies. This study evaluated the impact of combining preconception and prenatal supplementation with myo-inositol, probiotics, and trace elements on mood, quality of life, and fetal development in depressed mothers.

AIM

To identify a novel therapeutic approach to reduce pregnancy complications and improve maternal-fetal health outcomes.

METHODS

This retrospective cohort study included 314 pregnant women who were diagnosed with mild to moderate depression, as determined by a Zung self-rating depression scale score of less than 69. The participants were divided into an intervention group (n = 161) receiving myo-inositol, probiotics, and trace elements and a control group (n = 153) without supplementation. Supplementation commenced 3 months before conception and continued through pregnancy. Psychiatric symptoms and quality of life were evaluated using the positive and negative affect schedule-now, state-trait anxiety inventory, Patient Health Questionnaire-8, and World Health Organization Quality of life Assessment: Brief Version scales preconception and postpartum. Fetal development metrics were assessed via ultrasound, and neonatal outcomes were recorded.

RESULTS

The intervention group presented significant reductions in gestational diabetes mellitus (13.04% vs 23.53%, P = 0.016) and gestational hypertension (3.73% vs 9.15%, P = 0.049). Higher levels of inositol, iron, zinc, and probiotics were observed near term in the intervention group. Postpartum mood assessments indicated lower anxiety and depression scores for the intervention group, with significant improvements in the positive and negative affect schedule-now (P = 0.002), trait anxiety (P = 0.002), and Patient Health Questionnaire-8 (P = 0.018) scores. The World Health Organization Quality of life Assessment: Brief Version scores improved in the psychological (P = 0.041) and environmental (P = 0.009) domains postpartum. Fetal biparietal diameter and femoral length were greater in the intervention group alongside better neonatal body length and reduced neonatal unit admissions (2.48% vs 7.84%, P = 0.031).

CONCLUSION

Combined supplementation with myo-inositol, probiotics, and trace elements from preconception through pregnancy may reduce pregnancy-related complications, enhance mood and quality of life, and improve fetal growth metrics.

Keywords: Myo-inositol; Probiotics; Perinatal depression; Fetal development; Nutritional supplementation; Pregnancy outcomes

Core Tip: This study assessed the effects of combined myo-inositol, probiotics, and trace elements on maternal and fetal health. Results showed reduced gestational diabetes mellitus and hypertension rates, improved postpartum mood, and enhanced quality of life scores. Fetal growth parameters and neonatal outcomes also improved. These findings highlight a promising strategy to reduce complications and improve maternal-fetal health.