It is a known fact that pregnancy takes a toll on both the physical and mental health of a woman. But how significantly it would affect one's brain. A recent study found that grey matter volume shrinks by about 5 per cent. Also, 94 per cent of these changes occur in the brain.
What is grey matter?
Grey matter and white matter are both essential parts of your brain and spinal cord (central nervous system). Approximately 40 per cent of the brain consists of grey matter, while 60 per cent is white matter.
The grey matter plays a crucial role, allowing you to function normally from day to day. Its role is significant when it comes to one's mental functions, memory, emotions and movement.
According to a recent study published in Nature Communications, the changes in grey matter observed in 94 per cent of the brain, are particularly prominent in the default mode network, which is known to help with social cognition.
Notably, the study also states that the grey matter that shrinks partly recovers during the postpartum period.
According to the scientists from Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona, Spain, the pregnancy-linked brain changes were related to fluctuating levels of two estrogens -- 'estriol-3-sulfate' and 'estrone-sulfate'.
Estrogens are hormones important for sexual development and reproduction in women. The estrogen levels rise during pregnancy before returning to basic levels after delivery.
What could happen if grey matter damage occurs?
1. Alzheimer's disease
2. Parkinson's disease
3. Multiple sclerosis
4. Traumatic brain injury
The common symptoms of damage include memory loss, cognitive impairment and movement issues.