Pregnancy Linked to Memory Loss Due to Estrogen Levels, Study Finds
Summary
Pregnancy-related forgetfulness, often called “baby brain” or “momsnesia,” is linked to rising estrogen levels that disrupt memory-related brain networks. A study on women and mice found the effect is temporary and does not mean pregnant women become less intelligent.
Key Points
- Pregnancy-related memory lapses are described as a real biological effect, not just a myth.
- Researchers found that high estrogen levels during pregnancy can interfere with brain networks involved in memory.
- A study on 70 women showed memory weakening in the final months of pregnancy and shortly after childbirth.
- Lead researcher Dr. Yanlin He said the condition is temporary and does not mean women become less intelligent.
