Motherhood triggers significant cognitive and emotional shifts in women, a process termed "matrescence." This transition involves environmental, hormonal, and neurobiological changes.
During pregnancy and postpartum, women may experience temporary cognitive challenges, often called "mommy brain." However, the brain adapts, leading to improved cognitive functions over time. Studies show that the increased cognitive load of motherhood initially challenges, but later improves, cognitive reserve.
Research indicates that motherhood may alter women's aging trajectories. While neurogenesis slows during pregnancy, mothers may experience increased neurogenesis in middle age, unlike non-mothers. Elderly mothers with more children have thicker grey matter and better memory, suggesting a neuroprotective effect.