PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — We have known for quite some time that numerous hormonal changes occur in a woman during pregnancy. What about changes in the brain?
In past years, researchers were only able to speculate, but new imaging technology allows much greater information, and scientists can now point to changes in an expectant mother's brain — particularly in the gray matter.
The research is highly technical, but the most exciting part is that in the postpartum period, both the new mother and father experience structural changes that can be correlated with stronger brain responses when in the presence of their child or viewing images.
The two parts of the brain impacted the most: the amygdala and superior temporal sulcus, which are associated with social interaction.
Get more medical reports from Dr. Brian McDonough.
KYW Newsradio's Medical Reports are sponsored by Independence Blue Cross.
