Improving health outcomes for mother and baby

After the birth of their baby most women see their health care professionals, with the focus often on the baby’s health. Yet 10 to 15 per cent of new mothers in New Zealand will suffer from postnatal depression. The mental health of the mother has been known to impact on their child’s cognitive and emotional development. A new study from Massey University – the Mother and Infant Nutrition Investigation (MINI) – will monitor the mother’s health by assessing her nutrient status, thyroid function, general health, and potential link to postnatal depression. Researchers in the MINI study are seeking healthy mothers who are at a late stage of pregnancy or have recently given birth. Participants must be based in the wider Manawatū region. PhD researcher Ying Jin is studying three nutrients – iodine, selenium and iron – and the impact the combination of these nutrients has on thyroid function.