![]() Experts suggest that this “pruning” or “shedding” of brain tissue helps the brain become more focused and efficient for the job that lies ahead-caring for a tiny baby-and enables a new parent to form a stronger attachment to the baby. OK, so pregnancy brain just went from annoying hormones to reduced gray matter! But what makes this study so interesting is that this observed effect could be a positive one. Then, after comparing these scans with those of control groups (women and men who weren’t pregnant), the scientists discovered a reduction of gray matter in certain areas of the brain after pregnancy. Here’s how the study went:įirst, the researchers performed brain scans on individuals who were hoping to become pregnant with their first child, and then (for those who did conceive) repeated the scans after labor and delivery. Though pregnancy brain isn’t an officially sanctioned medical condition, one small (but important) study shows that pregnancy does lead to changes in the brain’s structure, and that those changes may last up to two years after someone gives birth. So, although there are some clear links between what happens during pregnancy (hormonal changes, fatigue, stress, etc.) and the so-called pregnancy brain symptoms, the (medical) jury is still out on its status as an actual condition. In addition to these common possible triggers, some research suggests that that being pregnant does lead to memory impairment and reduced attention span, which often continue into the postpartum period.Īt the same time, other studies find that there’s little or no difference in these functions among those who are pregnant and those who aren’t. ![]() If you feel depressed or anxious during your pregnancy, contact your healthcare provider for guidance. Others have depression periodically or throughout pregnancy, causing attention issues. Some people experience a bout of depression before giving birth, which one study linked to memory problems. And pregnancy brings so many things to think about and anticipate, which can cause stress or anxiety and contribute to that forgetfulness or absentmindedness.ĭepression. When you have a lot on your plate, it can be difficult to concentrate. Along with fatigue, morning sickness can make you feel worn down and mentally fuzzy. And lack of sleep or poor-quality sleep, both common complaints during pregnancy, may also be part of the mix. Another condition that affects many pregnant people- fatigue-can also contribute to a foggy brain and faulty memory. The big shifts in levels of estrogen and progesterone, for example, can produce a wide range of symptoms during pregnancy, many affecting brain function.įatigue. One possible trigger is pregnancy hormones. However, there are a few possible factors. It’s not clear what leads to the forgetfulness and general “momnesia” of pregnancy brain. Generate names What Causes Pregnancy Brain and Is It Normal? Whether or not experts end up deciding that pregnancy brain is real, it's helpful to know more about the various symptoms you may experience and their potential causes. Though it might not be a true condition, with so many reports of forgetfulness and mental fogginess while pregnant (and sometimes postpartum), it's likely that something is going on. Pregnancy brain isn’t an official medical condition rather, it’s a catchall term for some symptoms that affect many-if not most-pregnant people. Read on to learn what pregnancy brain is, if it’s real, what causes it, and how you can help boost your memory and concentration while pregnant. If you’re experiencing forgetfulness, fogginess, or general absent-mindedness while pregnant, you could have what’s sometimes known as “pregnancy brain.” There’s no scientific or medical consensus that pregnancy brain is real, but several studies have revealed a relation between being pregnant and poorer performance of typical cognitive functions.
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