EXOMIND & rTMS Research Library
A systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated rTMS during pregnancy and the postpartum period and reported a significant pooled therapeutic effect for depressive symptoms.
Why this finding matters
Depression during pregnancy or after birth can be serious, exhausting and difficult to treat. The pooled findings support further discussion of rTMS as a non-invasive option, while the smaller evidence base means decisions should be coordinated carefully with the person’s healthcare team.
Research Spotlight
Large pooled symptom effect
- 11 studies reviewed
- 5 studies in quantitative synthesis
- SMD 1.394
- More research required
What the evidence suggests
Eleven studies were included in the systematic review and five in the quantitative synthesis. The reported therapeutic effect size was 1.394, with a sensitivity-analysis estimate of 1.074. No severe maternal or fetal adverse effects were reported in the included studies.
What this could mean for you
The findings support further discussion of rTMS as a potential non-medication option for carefully screened peripartum or postpartum depression. Decisions require coordination with the client’s medical and perinatal care team.
A careful, individualized next step
Research informs—but does not replace—individual clinical judgment. We review symptoms, diagnosis, previous treatment, medications, contraindications, functional goals and the strength of evidence for the proposed protocol. A consultation does not guarantee that treatment will be recommended.
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We can review symptoms, timing, current care and safety considerations. No treatment recommendation is made without individualized assessment.
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Study citation
Lee, Kim and Kwon. Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation treatment for peripartum depression: systematic review and meta-analysis. PMID: 33563220 · DOI: 10.1186/s12884-021-03600-3.
View the original record on PubMed
Educational information only. Findings from pooled research do not predict individual outcomes and may involve devices or protocols that differ from EXOMIND.