What Is Momnesia Or Amnesia In Mothers? – Being Parents

During pregnancy or after giving birth, many mothers report suffering from memory loss, difficulty concentrating, and coordination problems. In addition, they also reported having difficulty thinking, remembering and even making decisions. This temporary state of the brain has been called “momnesia” or “mother’s amnesia”.

What is momnesia or amnesia of mothers?

“Mnesia” refers to memory problems encountered by the mother during pregnancy and after the birth of the child. Other problems related to the brain, such as lack of concentration and learning difficulties, are also highlighted. However, many wonder about its existence. Is this a myth or a reality?

During pregnancy and after the birth of the baby, José R. Alonso claims that a woman’s brain undergoes several structural and functional changes. However, most of them are generally positive. This is the case, for example, with improving mental capacities such as learning and memory.

According to data collected by this professional in the context of research, lack of sleep could be a determining factor for the mother to suffer from certain memory and concentration problems. This is due to the fact that she does not sleep the necessary hours. As a result, the brain would not get enough rest.

Another fundamental factor could be the change of priorities due to the presence of a new family member at home. New tasks become more important and others are put aside.

What does research say about maternal amnesia or momnesia?

Anita Holdcroft, Emeritus Professor of Anesthesia at Imperial College London, conducted research in 1997. The research found that women’s brain size decreases by 7% at the end of pregnancy. In addition, she explains that it takes six months for the brain to regain its normal size.

After childbirth, certain areas of the brain increase in size. It is mainly the prefrontal cortex involved in reasoning and judgment. But also of the amygdala and the hypothalamus which regulate the emotions. In addition, the insula, the superior temporal gyrus and the thalamus allow one to experience empathy and recognize emotions. Finally, the substantia nigra also increases and promotes learning.

Anita Holdcroft believed that these alterations were due to a change in the volume of cells rather than their number. Indeed, it has been observed that, during pregnancy, the ventricles of the brain increase in size. They return to normal six months after the baby is born.

What activities can you do to improve memory?

When you have a baby at home, the activities tend to increase and often it is difficult to organize yourself. Therefore, it is often difficult to find a quick solution to memory problems. However, there are some activities you can do that can help your brain rest.

Sleep more to avoid momnesia or amnesia in mothers

It’s easy to say but not that easy to do, especially when you have a baby to care for. However, you should take advantage of times when you have a little help from a family member or parent to recover a few hours of sleep. In this way, the brain rests and the stress decreases.

Learn to delegate activities

The baby becomes the center of attention and concern of the mother. Despite this, if you have someone at home who can help you care for the baby, it is important to delegate certain activities.

Adopt a balanced diet

A diet rich in nutrients is healthy for body and soul. Experts recommend eating fruits and vegetables which are made up of various vitamins and minerals.

Exercise

Exercise is good for the general well-being of people. A simple walk in a natural environment could help oxygenate the brain and keep us healthier.

Likewise, other physical exercises can help. However, it is essential to consult a specialist for approval before practicing any type of exercise.

In conclusion, “momnesia” could be a myth for some specialists, who point out that many factors can affect the memory or concentration of mothers. Despite this, many changes occur in the brains of women during this stage, although most of them are positive.