Health

Evidence grows for dramatic brain remodelling during pregnancy

A woman's brain was scanned throughout her pregnancy, adding to the growing body of evidence that dramatic remodelling takes place in preparation for motherhood

Pregnancy may permanently change parts of the brain bernardbodo/iStockphoto/Getty Images The human brain goes through significant changes during pregnancy with few regions untouched, according to the first ever map of this over the course of gestation and beyond. Some regions of the brain shrink during this time, while others grow and become better connected. These changes are thought to enable mothers to develop strong bonds with their baby and adapt to the demanding task of caring for them.

A better understanding of this remodelling could explain several pregnancy-related behaviours and help people at risk of mental health conditions, such...

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