The Mind of Mothers

Women’s brains lose nearly 5% of their gray matter on average during pregnancy, according to the largest-ever study of pregnancy-related brain changes published yesterday. Researchers say the change—which is partially reversible after six months—may be preparing women for motherhood.

Brain scans from 127 women before, during, and after pregnancy revealed that most of the gray matter loss occurs in a brain network associated with self-reflection, empathy, and rest. Women who shed more gray matter were more likely to report bonding well with their newborns, suggesting an evolutionary adaptation to childbirth. The study authors hope their findings will contribute to a detailed map of how the brain transitions into motherhood, which could help treat conditions like postpartum depression and improve attachment between infants and caregivers.

Another study published last month found that women pregnant with a second child experience unique changes in brain networks tied to paying attention and responding to stimuli, skills useful when caring for multiple children.