PREGNANCY MAKES WOMEN SMARTER

Hormones released during pregnancy and nursing dramatically enrich parts of the brain involved in learning and memory.

So suggests a study of animals by researchers at the University of Richmond and Randolph Macon College in Virginia. The findings may help in understanding the effects that higher hormone levels have on the brain during childbearing.

The findings suggested that a pregnant animal's behavior changes because of a permanent shift in the brain, according to Craig Kinsley, associate professor of psychology at the University of Richmond. He conducted the study, Motherhood Enhances Learning And Memory: Accompanying Alterations in Neuronal and Glial Morphology, with Randolph Macon psychologist Kelly Lambert. The results were presented at the Society for Neuroscience's annual meeting in November.

The professors conducted their research on female rats that were timed-mated. Special brain cell structures called dendrites -- necessary for communication between neurons--doubled in pregnant and nursing lab mice, the research indicates. At the same time, the number of the brain's glial cells, which act as scaffolding and communication conduits, also doubled.

The pregnant mice were bolder, more curious and energetic. They learned mazes more quickly, made fewer mistakes and retained their new knowledge longer. And the effects appeared to be long-lasting, according to the research.

###

Editors & Reporters: If you would like more information on the study, feel free to contact Dr. Kinsley at 804-289-8132 (office) or via e-mail [email protected] He can place you in contact with Dr. Lambert. Please contact Steve Infanti of Dick Jones Communications at 814-867-1963 if you would like a copy of the presentation. We help the University of Richmond with its public affairs work.

MEDIA CONTACT
Register for reporter access to contact details