Reproductive Depression

A subgroup of women experience highly significant cognitive, mood and neurological disorders associated with fluctuation of sex hormone levels. These windows of vulnerability can occur pre-menstrually, post-natally, or around the time of menopause. Although the underlying cause of these problems may include a complex interaction between psychological and social factors, there is increasing evidence that biological factors are also important.

There is a growing body of research that supports the use of specific nutritional, hormonal and non-hormonal (e.g. psychological) treatments in the management of these disorders. It is, however, difficult to access expert, unbiased help. In response Prof Craig developed, and is Clinical Lead, of the National Female Hormone Clinic , at the Maudsley Hospital, which is specifically designed to meet this need.

Prof Craig is uniquely placed to address this clinical need, as he has also completed clinical training in Obstetrics and Gynaecology. After passing Membership examinations in both fields he is the only practicing doctor to be a Fellow of the Royal Colleges of Obstetricians & Gynaecologists (FRCOG) and Psychiatrists (FRCPsych). In 2007 he was awarded a PhD by the University of London in recognition of his work into the effects of sex hormones on the brain using in vivo MRI techniques. He remains actively involved in research at the interface of these disciplines, and continues to attract funding from institutions such as the MRC(UK). In 2021 he was appointed as Professor of Translational Reproductive and Neurodevelopmental Sciences at the Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London.

Prof Craig is the present Chair of the UK and Ireland Marcé Society (UKIMS) for Perinatal Mental Health and Trustee & medical advisor to the National Association of Premenstrual Syndrome (NAPS).