Pregnancy can be responsible for a host of aches, pains, and discomforts. It can also be responsible for a variety of mood-related side effects. Some symptoms of pregnancy, though, are less common and probably less-understood than others. One of the potential side-effects of pregnancy which is very rare and about which we know very little is that of memory loss.

Many women who have been pregnant indicate that their memory, especially their short-term memory, seems to be affected by pregnancy. They feel absent minded or forgetful. This seems to especially be the case during the first trimester and the third trimester. As with many pregnancy symptoms, the second trimester seems to be the easiest.

Little research has been done in the area of memory loss during pregnancy, but there are some theories as to why this happens for some women. During the first trimester, a woman is often distracted by worries about becoming a parent. In addition, a woman’s body is changing at such a rapid pace that she often doesn’t know if she’s coming or going. The hormone changes are at their greatest during the first trimester, as well. All of these things can contribute to memory problems in early pregnancy.

During the third trimester, you are often overwhelmed, both physically and emotionally. This can certainly impact memory. In addition, it can be difficult to get a good night’s sleep. The connection between sleep and memory has been solidly established by research, so if you’re not sleeping well it is no surprise that you are feeling a bit absentminded. On top of all of this, trying to get ready for both the labor and delivery experience as well as trying to prepare the house (and yourself) for a new baby can create a whirlwind of activity and emotion that can affect your memory.

Memory loss during pregnancy is usually not anything to be concerned about, and it will generally resolve itself. If the memory loss is constant, severe, or accompanied by other symptoms such as having trouble concentrating or a feeling of depression, you should speak with your health care provider. Memory loss can be a symptom of depression or another emotional problem that can greatly impact your pregnancy.

Posted in Pregnancy

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