Absent-mindedness can be a part of pregnancy
This stage in pregnancy is a pretty calm one. Emotions are stable and physical discomfort, although not completely excluded, is likely manageable. A common complaint is lower back pain, mainly caused by the growing uterus. As the body’s center of gravity shifts, the load redistributes along the spine and new muscles are put to work, some are not used to working quite so intensively and can become sore [1]. A good way to manage back pain is through physical activity, swimming and yoga can be especially helpful [2, 3].
Studies show that many expectant mothers get a bit forgetful or find their attention span and speed of thought are not the same. It can be a little more challenging for them to retain information, choose words, move from one subject to another, or switch between different activities [4]. Research also shows that a pregnant woman’s brain undergoes some major changes, mainly caused by increased levels of estrogen and progesterone, which in turn can cause shifts in behavior, mood, and cognition [5].
Take all of this into consideration the next time your partner tells you the same story for the third time, forgets the keys, or gets a few names mixed up. Most women find a way around all this, but you can be supportive by kindly reminding her of important things, leaving her thoughtful notes, or double-checking locks and appliances when you go out.
