Is It Common to Have Memory Loss in the Postpartum?

After having a baby, many women notice tiny changes in their memory. Research shows that working memory—the kind needed to keep track of tasks—might change a bit from pregnancy to postpartum. This can be because of the natural shifts in the body and brain that happen after childbirth. For example, some studies have found that brain areas associated with rest and inner thought, called the default mode network, may work differently in new mothers. However, these changes are usually subtle. They do not mean that a woman has lost her ability to remember important things, but rather that she might be juggling a lot of new responsibilities and feelings. Other research noted early variations in cognitive or thinking skills in the weeks following delivery that can be influenced by many factors, such as sleep and stress. In short, while it is normal for some moms to notice a little forgetfulness, profound and consistent memory loss is rare and should be discussed with a healthcare provider if it causes worry.