A new study from the Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB) reveals that pregnancy causes significant physical changes in the brains of 94% of mothers. These changes, driven by pregnancy hormones, primarily affect areas associated with social cognition, emotional processing, and maternal bonding. Researchers suggest these adaptations help mothers respond instinctively to their baby's needs and strengthen their emotional connection.
Share on tumblrfrom the Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona found that pregnancy physically changes 94% of a mother’s brain, particularly in areas linked to social cognition, emotional processing, and maternal bonding.
The findings confirmed that pregnancy leads to a reduction of up to 4.9% in grey matter volume, particularly in areas involved in social interactions and emotional regulation. The results showed that the brain changes were primarily biological, rather than caused by sleep deprivation or new responsibilities.The research found that these brain changes closely follow fluctuations in pregnancy hormones, particularly two forms of oestrogen—estriol-3-sulfate and estrone-sulfate.
Instead of being a sign of cognitive decline, these changes are likely an evolutionary advantage—helping mothers tune in to their baby’s needs and emotions.By mapping out these changes, scientists hope to gain a better understanding of how pregnancy impacts maternal mental health.
PREGNANCY BRAIN CHANGES MATERNAL BONDING HORMONES POSTPARTUM RECOVERY
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