A pregnant woman's brain changes, and it's not just due to hormones. A recent study has revealed surprising findings about these invisible yet very real transformations.
Behind these changes is a subtle interplay between grey and white matter, reshaping the brain's connections.
Illustration image from Pixabay
Researchers observed a reduction in cortical grey matter, the outer layer of the brain, in a neuroscientist who volunteered for the study. This loss, reaching up to 4%, was detected as early as the first weeks of pregnancy. The changes persisted for up to two years after childbirth, indicating a long-lasting reorganization of the brain.
Meanwhile, a temporary 10% increase in the integrity of white matter, located in deeper regions, was measured. This change, peaking towards the end of the second trimester, promotes communication between different areas of the brain. The phenomenon gradually stabilizes after birth.
The origin of these transformations likely lies in hormonal fluctuations, with rising levels of estradiol and progesterone during pregnancy. These substances are known to profoundly affect brain networks. Although these alterations are impressive, they are not always noticeable. The volunteer reported no significant effects, despite the changes revealed by MRI scans.
Comparisons with non-pregnant individuals confirm the uniqueness of these motherhood-related transformations. Furthermore, comparisons with brain scans of other pregnant women seem to confirm these phenomena. Scientists now hope to better understand their role in conditions like postpartum depression.
This research paves the way for further studies, especially on adult brain neuroplasticity and its implications for maternal mental health. The recent findings provide valuable tools for improving the care of pregnant women.
What is neuroplasticity?
Neuroplasticity refers to the brain's ability to reorganize and adapt to internal or external changes. This phenomenon occurs through the creation, elimination, or reorganization of neural connections, allowing the brain to adjust to new situations, such as injury or learning.
During pregnancy, the female brain undergoes significant neuroplasticity. Hormones, such as estradiol and progesterone, influence these changes, altering the structure of neural networks. These adjustments, observed through brain imaging, seem to enhance behavioral capacities related to motherhood, such as attention and empathy.
This concept demonstrates that the brain is capable of impressive adaptations throughout life, even in adulthood. Recent discoveries about neuroplasticity in pregnant women allow for a better understanding of the mechanisms involved in adapting to profound biological and psychological changes.
Article author: Cédric DEPOND