Pregnancy represents one of the most extreme endocrine events of life, involving unequaled hormone surges that orchestrate widespread maternal adaptations. Animal studies have demonstrated reproduction-related neural and behavioral changes that are evident across the lifespan. However, remarkably little is known on the effects of this monumental transition on the human brain. We have previously shown for the first time that pregnancy leads to changes in human brain structure and function, demonstrating a dramatic pregnancy-related neuroplasticity in humans. Building on these results, this research project aims to
- comprehensively map the changes manifesting in a woman’s brain by tracking core aspects of brain anatomy and function across pregnancy and the postpartum period,
- pinpoint key factors driving pregnancy-related neuroplasticity by means of an extensive profile of endocrine and lifestyle changes, and
- reveal the neural substrates for potential adaptive and maladaptive processes, focusing on specific functional domains highlighted by pilot data.
This topic is investigated by means of a prospective cohort study tracking women from before conception across pregnancy and into the postpartum period, which combines various neuroimaging techniques with psychopedagogic and biomedical measures. This project is supported by a European Research Council (ERC) Starting Grant.
