Debunking the Myth: Pregnancy Can Actually Make Women Smarter
The Chinese phrase "" (yī yùn shǎ sān nián), or "one pregnancy, three years of dumbness," has been a long-standing myth that suggests that pregnancy can cause a decline in cognitive function, leading to forgetfulness and a decrease in intelligence. However, a recent article published by the "Healthy China" WeChat public account, which is managed by the National Health Commission, has debunked this myth.
30 October 2024
According to the article, pregnancy can actually make women more intelligent. The hormonal changes during pregnancy can cause subtle changes in the brain structure, making women more maternal and increasing their energy levels. This, in turn, can help women better cope with the challenges of motherhood.
The article attributes the myth of "one pregnancy, three years of dumbness" to psychological factors. Women may experience anxiety and stress during pregnancy and after childbirth, leading to feelings of forgetfulness and decreased cognitive function. However, this is not a result of pregnancy itself, but rather a response to the significant life changes that come with motherhood.
The phrase "一孕傻三年" (one pregnancy makes you stupid for three years) is more of a psychological suggestion. Women's feelings of decreased memory during pregnancy and postpartum are mostly due to the arrival of a new life, changes in lifestyle, and the resulting anxiety and tension.
In fact, research has shown that pregnancy itself does not lead to a decline in memory or cognitive function. However, the physical changes during pregnancy and the significant life changes after childbirth can cause stress and anxiety, leading to feelings of reduced cognitive ability.
On the other hand, pregnancy and childbirth have several benefits, including alleviating menstrual cramps, reducing the risk of uterine fibroids, and preventing certain types of cancer. The changes in hormone levels during pregnancy can also lead to subtle changes in brain structure, making women more maternal and increasing their energy levels, which can help them cope with the challenges of motherhood.
Experts have long argued that pregnancy and childbirth can have a positive impact on women's cognitive function. Research has shown that pregnancy can improve memory and problem-solving skills, and that motherhood can increase a woman's sense of self-efficacy and confidence.
The article's findings are consistent with previous studies that have shown that pregnancy and childbirth can have a positive impact on women's health and well-being. For example, a study published in the Journal of Women's Health found that pregnancy can reduce the risk of certain diseases, such as ovarian cancer and endometriosis.
Therefore, the notion of "一孕傻三年" is more of a myth than a reality. With the right mindset and support, women can navigate the challenges of pregnancy and motherhood with confidence and intelligence. In conclusion, the myth of "one pregnancy, three years of dumbness" has been debunked by scientific evidence. Pregnancy and childbirth can actually have a positive impact on women's cognitive function and overall health.
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