“Motherhood changes you because it literally alters a woman’s brain—structurally, functionally, and in many ways, irreversibly.”   - Louann Brizendine, The Female Brain

When we hear “pregnancy brain” we usually think of the loopy forgetfulness and brain fog that shows up during pregnancy, but that hardly describes the powerful brain remodel that’s underway. For decades, dads have said it’s not just a new baby they bring home from the hospital: it’s a new wife, too, and science agrees…

Studies show the changes taking place in a mom’s brain are no small thing: 100 billion neurons are being re-purposed for motherhood: BILLIONS! Neurons we don’t really use are pruned and re-purposed, and neurons built for motherhood are bulked up. It’s like optimizing your computer. You delete files you don’t need and do software updates to make the whole thing more efficient: As a human, you’re becoming more efficient!

Among the skills strengthened:

• Sharper focus and decision-making
• Greater ability to interpret body language/cues
• Heightened attentiveness/protectiveness
• Improved multi-tasking ability

And pregnancy hormones like estrogen, progesterone, and prolactin play a big part in your brain changes, but oxytocin (“love hormone”) has the biggest impact of all.

During childbirth, oxytocin triggers contractions (Pitocin, a synthetic version of it, is used to induce labor), and it’s a major player in breastfeeding, helping with the release (“let down”) of milk. And when it comes to bonding, just thinking about your baby, or cuddling, or smelling her soft skin releases feel-good sensations that lead to bonding (same for Dad). Oxytocin is so strong that studies show hits of it are even stronger than cocaine, which explains why we become so hyper-driven to protect our baby.

So if you find yourself frustrated because you keep losing your car keys, just remember your brain isn’t turning to mush; it’s gearing up for motherhood—a very good thing!

READ! 11 Interesting Effects of Oxytocin