Louise 
Baby Brain – Real or Myth?
You know the scene. It’s a classic case of baby brain: you walk into a room and instantly forget what you went in for. You put your car keys in the fridge. You call the cat by your partner’s name and stare blankly at your friend while they wait for you to finish the sentence you started ten seconds ago.
Welcome to baby brain — also known as mum brain, pregnancy brain, or the moment you realise your brain has temporarily left the building.
But is this frustrating forgetfulness all in your head (literally)? Or is it just a tired stereotype that blames everything on the hormones? Whether “baby brain” is real or just a myth, pregnancy brings plenty of changes to your body and mind. My Antenatal Classes help you navigate pregnancy, prepare for birth and feel confident as you welcome your baby.
Let’s take a look at what the science says.
What is baby brain?
“Baby brain” refers to the commonly reported cognitive changes that pregnant people experience — typically forgetfulness, mental fog, slower processing, or a feeling that your thoughts are swimming through treacle. It often starts in pregnancy and can hang around postpartum, especially when you’re up five times a night feeding a newborn.
People often describe it as feeling just a bit off. Not quite as sharp. Like your brain is buffering.
Sound familiar?
Is it real?
Short answer: Yes. But it’s not as simple as “pregnancy makes you forget things.”
A number of studies (including a large 2018 meta-analysis) have found measurable changes in brain function and structure during pregnancy — particularly affecting memory, attention, and executive function (i.e., your ability to plan, multitask, and get things done without wandering off mid-task to clean out a drawer for no reason).
MRI scans have shown grey matter reductions in areas of the brain involved in social cognition — possibly a rewiring process that helps mothers attune to their baby’s needs. Think of it less as brain damage and more as a neurological home renovation.
Interestingly, the same research suggests these changes are long-lasting — not in a bad way, but in a “your brain is literally reshaping itself for parenthood” kind of way.
So why does it feel like you’ve gone a bit daft?
Well, there are a few key culprits:
- Hormones: Oestrogen and progesterone surge dramatically in pregnancy and can affect brain chemistry and function.
- Sleep deprivation: Poor sleep is a massive contributor to cognitive fog — and let’s be honest, getting comfy in late pregnancy is no easy feat.
- Mental load: You’re growing a baby, planning a birth, juggling appointments, Googling what’s normal 17 times a day, and possibly still working or caring for other children. Of course your brain’s at capacity.
- Stress and anxiety: These can both interfere with memory and concentration, and pregnancy is a time of big feelings.
Does it mean you’re less capable?
Absolutely not. While some cognitive skills might dip slightly, others are enhanced. Many researchers believe pregnancy sharpens skills like emotional intelligence, intuition, and bonding. So while you might forget why you walked upstairs, you’ll likely be beautifully tuned in to your baby’s cues once they arrive.
You are not broken. You are transforming.
Can you do anything to help?
Yes! While baby brain might be a normal part of the process, a few things can make it easier to manage:
- Sleep, rest, and hydration — the holy trinity.
- Omega-3s and choline (found in things like oily fish and eggs) may support brain health.
- Lists, reminders, and notes on your phone — outsource your memory wherever possible.
- Be kind to yourself. You’re doing something enormous. Forgetting what day it is doesn’t mean you’re failing — it means you’re human.
The Honest Take
“Baby brain” isn’t a myth — but it’s also not something to fear or mock. Your brain is doing incredible work in the background, preparing you for motherhood in ways we’re only just beginning to understand.
So next time you lose your train of thought mid-sentence or find your phone in the bread bin, take a deep breath.
You’re not losing your mind. You’re gaining a baby.
And that’s pretty amazing.
