Changes in cerebrospinal fluid neurochemistry during pregnancy

Background. Little is known about changes in brain function that may occur during pregnancy. Studies in rodents and sheep suggest that several brain neurotransmitter and neurohormonal systems known to modulate anxiety may be altered during pregnancy. Methods: Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and plasma samples were obtained from 21 women (during weeks 38-39 of pregnancy) who were undergoing elective cesarean section andfrom 22 healthy nonpregnant women. Results. The CSF levels of g-aminobutyric acid (GABA) and 3-metboxy-4-bydroxyphenylglycol were reduced in pregnant women. 7-bere were no changes in CSF glutamate, 5-hydroxyindoleactic acid, and bomovanillic acid. 7-bere was a large increase in CSF prolactin in pregnant women and also a trend toward an elevation in CSF oxytocin. Levels of prolactin, but not oxytocin, in CSF and plasma were correlated in pregnant women. Conclusions: These results suggest thatpregnancy alters regulation of brain GABA, norepinepbrine, andprolactin, which mayplay a role in changes in vulnerability to anxiety and depression during pregnancy and postpartum. Prolactin circulating in the bloodstream seems to be the major source of CS77prolactin during pregnancy.