
Pregnancy Changes Maternal Brain Structure: Gray Matter Reduction with Partial Recovery Postpartum
1 month ago | 5 Views
The connection between a mother and her child is one of the most amazing examples of genuine love. From the moment a baby is born, a mother has this natural urge to care for them. That moment is a huge turning point in a mother’s life, and it really shifts her emotions. But it’s not just an emotional change; research in Nature Communications reveals that pregnancy actually alters the brain in ways that enhance the bond and attachment between a mother and her child.
Shifts in a mother's brain
There are some interesting changes happening in the brain's grey matter that help shape the connection between a mother and her child. So, what did the research team discover?
The researchers looked at 127 mothers from before they got pregnant all the way through six months after giving birth. They found some surprising results: during pregnancy, especially in the later stages, there was a decrease in grey matter volume, but it started to bounce back after the baby was born. This U-shaped trend was seen in areas of the brain linked to social understanding, decision-making, and handling emotions. The study also pointed out fluctuations in hormones like estriol sulfate and estrone sulfate. These changes in late pregnancy seem to get mothers ready emotionally and psychologically for their new role with the child.
Healing grey matter and building connections

Late pregnancy, according to the study, brings about notable changes in the brain and hormone levels. This suggests that as women approach childbirth, their bodies are gearing up both mentally and physically for the challenges of becoming a mother.
In short, the volume of grey matter decreases in the final months of pregnancy but bounces back naturally after giving birth during the postpartum phase. These shifts are tied to fluctuations in estrogen levels. The restoration of grey matter is associated with stronger maternal bonds and reduced feelings of hostility, leading to a better connection with the baby.
Read Also: Black Coffee for Weight Loss: 3 Effective Ways to Get Back in Shape
Get the latest Bollywood entertainment news, trending celebrity news, latest celebrity news, new movie reviews, latest entertainment news, latest Bollywood news, and Bollywood celebrity fashion & style updates!
HOW DID YOU LIKE THIS ARTICLE? CHOOSE YOUR EMOTICON!
#