New findings from a team at BYU suggest that the notion of “pregnancy brain”—the perception that expectant mothers experience forgetfulness or decreased focus—is unfounded. In response, pregnant women everywhere are rolling their eyes and saying, “We’re not the ones who started this rumor.”
The study involved a group of women in their third trimester, who were later assessed three to six months postpartum, alongside a control group of women who had never been pregnant. The researchers evaluated various cognitive abilities, including memory, reasoning, organization, and spatial skills. Surprisingly, the results indicated that both pregnant and postpartum women performed comparably to those without any pregnancy experience across all measured brain functions.
However, one notable discrepancy emerged: pregnant and postpartum women consistently rated their memory and cognitive abilities lower than their non-pregnant counterparts. Lead author of the study, Jamie Thompson, expressed surprise at the intensity of the negative self-assessment among participants. “Despite evidence showing they perform just as well, many women felt they were struggling,” Thompson shared with BYU News.
The researchers suggest that societal expectations, along with the emotional challenges that can accompany pregnancy, may contribute to this perceived decline in cognitive function. Thompson hopes that this research could enhance the well-being of expectant mothers by reassuring them of their normal brain function during pregnancy. “If they understand their cognitive abilities are intact, it may boost their confidence and overall quality of life,” he added.
But perhaps the focus should shift from reassuring pregnant women to addressing the misconceptions that exist in workplaces. Women might truly begin to “believe in themselves” when their professional contributions are recognized, rather than minimized, and when unsolicited advice about their bodies and choices ceases.
The BYU article begins with the assertion, “Pregnant women often attribute their forgetfulness to the baby, but research indicates this belief is a misconception.” It would be refreshing to see a narrative that emphasizes the capabilities of pregnant women rather than dismissing their experiences as mere imagination.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while researchers may label “pregnancy brain” as a myth, the lived experiences of pregnant women tell a different story—one that deserves acknowledgment and respect.
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