Pregnancy Brain Is Real — and Kind of Amazing!

Ever find your keys in the pantry or stare at the microwave wondering why you’re there? Welcome to the wonderfully weird world of “pregnancy brain.” It’s real, it’s normal, and you’re definitely not the only one Googling symptoms you already forgot.
So, What Is Pregnancy Brain?
Pregnancy brain is something many expecting moms experience. It’s that fuzzy, sometimes forgetful feeling that makes you feel like your brain is running on low battery. The American Association of Pro-Life Obstetricians and Gynecologists (AAPLOG) explains that pregnancy affects every part of a woman’s body — including the brain — because of all the incredible hormonal and emotional changes happening.
Dr. Christina Francis, CEO of AAPLOG, explains, "Many people think of pregnancy as a condition that mostly just affects a woman's reproductive organs. However, it is a full-body process that impacts every major organ system. This includes the brain, the cells of which are 'pruned' to make room for connections that are necessary to care for the growing baby."
Studies show that up to 80% of pregnant women experience some memory slips or mental cloudiness (Mayo Clinic, 2023). But here’s the good news — you’re not losing your mind, and you are absolutely rocking this mom thing.
Your brain is actually being beautifully reshaped to help you focus on your baby and what matters most. In fact, research shows that pregnancy creates lasting changes in brain areas tied to bonding and caregiving (Nature Neuroscience, 2016). According to AAPLOG, these changes are not only normal — they’re a purposeful and meaningful part of how a mother is equipped for her new role.
"Pregnancy is truly a transformative process," says Dr. Francis. "The more we recognize this, the more we're able to give mothers the support and honor they need and deserve."
Rather than being a flaw, pregnancy brain is part of the intentional way your mind prepares you to nurture, protect, and connect with your baby.
Why Does It Happen?
Pregnancy shakes up every part of your body – your brain included. Hormonal shifts, emotional ups and downs, and good old-fashioned exhaustion all play a role. AAPLOG emphasizes that the way a mother’s brain adapts is purposeful and powerful, helping her meet the needs of her growing baby.
Here are a few common reasons behind pregnancy brain:
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Hormones: Surging estrogen and progesterone can mess with memory and focus.
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Lack of Sleep: Baby kicks at 3am? Hard to get comfy? Yep, that’ll make anyone foggy.
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Stress & Worry: You’re planning for a major life change — it’s a lot to hold in your head!
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Physical Exhaustion: Growing a tiny human is no small task. You’re using a lot of energy.
Signs You Might Have Pregnancy Brain
Every mama is different, but here’s what you might notice:
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Forgetting appointments or plans
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Losing track of your phone, keys, or coffee (check the freezer!)
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Spacing out mid-conversation
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Struggling to remember names or words
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Feeling like your brain is just a bit slower than usual
Real Talk: How to Handle It
Pregnancy brain can be funny, sometimes frustrating, but definitely manageable! Here are some simple ways to help:
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Write It Down: Use a planner, notepad, or app to track tasks.
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Rest Up: Sneak in naps or quiet time when you can.
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Go Easy on Yourself: You don’t have to do it all. Ask for help!
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Laugh About It: Finding your shoes in the fridge? It happens — and it’s okay.
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Stay Nourished: Good food and hydration help keep your brain happy.
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Practice Mindfulness: Even five minutes of breathing or meditating on Scripture can help.
Just a Reminder, Mama...
Pregnancy brain doesn’t mean you’re less capable or less sharp — it means your brain is busy doing something miraculous. Most moms say the fog lifts a few months after birth (though, let’s be real, newborn sleep schedules can keep things a little hazy).
This is your loving reminder to be kind to yourself. You’re growing a person, and your brain knows exactly what it’s doing.
You’ve Got This
Pregnancy brain is real, but it’s just one small part of this incredible journey. So the next time you blank on why you walked into the kitchen, take a deep breath, smile, and remember: you’re doing something amazing. Give yourself grace, laugh at the little slip-ups, and keep being the rockstar mom you already are.
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Looking for a Pro-Life OBGYN? Learn more about AAPLOG and how to locate a doctor.
Resources for Encouragement and Support
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AAPLOG: https://aaplog.org/ — Expert insights on pregnancy changes
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Nature Neuroscience Study: https://www.nature.com/articles/nn.4458
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Mayo Clinic Q&A: https://www.mayoclinic.org/
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Parents Magazine: “Brain Changes During Pregnancy” (Parents)