Pregnancy reprograms mom’s brain, reduces gray matter with partial recovery postpartum: study

changes in mother’s brain

There are structural changes in the gray matter of the brain that play a role in developing the bond between mother and child. So what changes have been observed by the team of researchers?

Researchers examined 127 mothers from their pre-conception all the way to six months postpartum. The findings were surprising, with a reduction in gray matter volume during pregnancy, especially in the late stages, followed by partial recovery after delivery. This U-shaped pattern was seen in brain regions involved in social cognition, decision making, and emotional processing. The study noted increases and decreases in estrogens such as estriol sulphate and estrone sulphate. In a way the changes seen in late pregnancy prepare the mother emotionally, psychologically and in every other way for the baby.

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Gray matter recovery and bonding

Late pregnancy showed significant changes in hormones as well as in the brain, the study reported. This indicates that even for a big milestone like childbirth, the body is prepared, mentally and physically, for its demands as a transition to motherhood takes place.

To sum up, gray matter volume decreases during the last few months of pregnancy and then it recovers naturally after birth during the postpartum period. These changes can be traced back to estrogen hormonal fluctuations. Gray matter recovery is associated with reduced feelings of maternal attachment and hostility, improved bonding with the child.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions you have about a medical condition.

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