The Science of Motherhood

May 5, 2021

As we approach Mother’s Day and recognize World Maternal Mental Health Day today, we want to take a minute to acknowledge how extraordinary mothers are – and how important they are to their child’s development. Beyond general praise, here are a few fun facts you can share with the “newest” mothers in your practice!

1. Oxytocin surges in a mother’s brain after childbirth and makes her brain more sensitive to the sound of her baby’s cries. [1]
2. Babies recognize and prefer the sound of their mother’s voice at birth. [2]
3. Skin-to-skin cuddling helps mothers feel connected to their babies and can control blood pressure, heart rate, and breathing. It also helps mothers lower their own stress and may help them feel connected to their baby. [3]
4. A mother’s brain may contain cells from her children, as they migrate through the placenta. An estimated 50% of mothers have their children’s cells inside of them. [4]
5. Research indicates that a mother’s heartbeat and the sound of her voice can help the baby’s brain grow in utero. [5]

Help us to support mothers in East Harlem with our supply drive >