Translational Health Reports

Exploring the Synergistic Potential of Combined Acupuncture and Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation for Postpartum Depression

Document Type : Review Article

Author

Zamdar H Rasul Karim

Board-Certified Psychiatrist, Lecturer at Sulaymaniya University College of Medicine, Department of Clinical Sciences, Iraq

https://doi.org/10.22034/thr.2025.236685
Abstract
Background: Postpartum depression (PPD) is a prevalent and serious global mental health disorder. Conventional pharmacological treatments like SSRIs have limitations, including side effects and breastfeeding safety concerns, prompting the exploration of alternative therapies.
Objective: This narrative review synthesizes current evidence on the efficacy, mechanisms, and clinical implementation of combined acupuncture and repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) for PPD.
Methods: A narrative review was conducted to analyze and integrate existing research on the integrative use of acupuncture (a Traditional Chinese Medicine practice) and rTMS (a non-invasive neuromodulation technique) for treating PPD.
Results: Evidence suggests that combined acupuncture-rTMS therapy may produce synergistic effects. Potential benefits include a greater reduction in depressive symptoms, improved neuroendocrine regulation, and enhanced overall quality of life compared to either intervention administered alone.
Conclusion: The combination of acupuncture and rTMS represents a promising integrative approach for PPD. Further research is needed to optimize treatment protocols, identify predictive biomarkers, and evaluate long-term outcomes.

Keywords

Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic
Stimulation
Postpartum Depression

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