Medical Field: Gynecology
Award: Winner
Country: Serbia
Year: 2024
Research Work: The Impact of Physical Activity on the Development of Postpartum Depression
Published in: Depression and Anxiety

I believe that medicine is a profession that combines scientific knowledge with a deep sense of responsibility, dedication, and continuous learning. It plays a crucial role in supporting people during some of the most significant and vulnerable moments of their lives.

 

Marija Rovčanin, MD, PhD, is a Research Associate and a Specialist in gynecology and obstetrics at the Clinic for Gynecology and Obstetrics at Narodni Front in Belgrade, Serbia.

She graduated from the Faculty of Medicine at the University of Belgrade and later defended a doctoral dissertation in the field of preventive sciences with a specific focus on gynecology and obstetrics. Dr. Rovčanin is actively engaged in both clinical practice and scientific research, contributing significantly to the advancement of women's health care.

Her research, The Impact of Physical Activity on the Development of Postpartum Depression, is important for clinical practice because it highlights the need for early recognition, proper screening and timely intervention for women in the postpartum period, addressing a critical yet often underdiagnosed condition that affects both maternal well-being and infant development.
 

Active recovery: the role of physical activity in preventing postpartum depression

The Impact of Physical Activity on the Development of Postpartum Depression explores the critical need for early detection, proper screening, and timely intervention for postpartum depression, a condition that remains underdiagnosed but has profound effects on both maternal well-being and infant development. The research highlights the potential of physical activity as a cost-effective, non-pharmacological intervention to prevent or mitigate the severity of postpartum depression. This approach offers a proactive shift in maternal healthcare, focusing on prevention rather than relying solely on traditional, reactive treatments.

The study provides robust scientific evidence on the relationship between physical activity and postpartum depression, using rigorous methodology to ensure the reliability and validity of the findings. It demonstrates that incorporating physical activity into pregnancy and postpartum care plans can significantly improve maternal mental health outcomes, contributing to better long-term results for mothers and their children. Furthermore, the research presents a promising direction for future clinical practice and public health guidelines, advocating for a broader recognition of the importance of physical activity in maternal care.
 

The intersection of science, compassion and innovation

Dr. Rovčanin finds motivation in the real-world impact of scientific progress, which drives her to explore and innovate in healthcare. She is passionate about transforming research into better diagnostics, treatments and patient care. Collaboration with colleagues, continuous learning and pushing the boundaries of current knowledge further fuel her dedication.

She believes that medicine is not just about expertise but also about responsibility and compassion. In gynecology, trust and a patient-centered approach are essential, as providing care during pregnancy and addressing health challenges requires both medical knowledge and empathy.