The Parental Brain: Understanding Parenthood and the Human Brain

How does the transition to parenthood reshape the brain? What do these neurological changes mean for both birthing and non-birthing parents? The transition to parenthood, particularly motherhood, involves significant neurological changes throughout pregnancy and into the postpartum period. Recent research has begun to uncover the profound alterations in the maternal brain during this time of matrescence, why they occur and what they mean. Furthermore, these changes are not exclusive to birthing parents—fathers and adoptive parents experience similar brain adaptations. Jodi Pawluski explores the key transformations in the brain during the transition to parenthood. This lecture is organised as part of Science Gallery Bengaluru's 7th exhibition-season Sci560. Sci560 is supported by Rohini Nilekani Philanthropies.