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Cognitive impairment during pregnancy: a meta-analysis.
Sasha J Davies1, Jarrad Ag Lum2, Helen Skouteris2
1Deakin University, Melbourne, VIC m.hayden@deakin.edu.au.
The Medical Journal of Australia
|January 11, 2018
Summary
Pregnancy is linked to objective declines in cognitive function, particularly memory and executive function, especially in the third trimester. These cognitive changes emerge early in pregnancy and warrant further study regarding their impact on daily life.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Psychology
- Obstetrics
Background:
- Many women report subjective cognitive declines during pregnancy, often termed 'pregnancy brain'.
- Empirical evidence for objective cognitive changes during pregnancy has been inconsistent.
- Understanding these changes is crucial for maternal well-being and healthcare.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine if pregnancy is associated with objective declines in cognitive functioning.
- To assess the progression of cognitive changes throughout pregnancy.
Main Methods:
- A meta-analysis of 20 studies involving 709 pregnant and 521 non-pregnant women.
- Utilized a random effects model to synthesize quantitative data.
- Searched CINAHL Complete, MEDLINE Complete, and PsychINFO databases.
Main Results:
- Pregnant women exhibited poorer overall cognitive functioning compared to non-pregnant controls (SMD, 0.52).
- Significant reductions in general cognitive functioning, memory, and executive function were observed in the third trimester.
- Cognitive declines in general functioning and memory were noted between the first and second trimesters.
Conclusions:
- Pregnancy is associated with objective declines in general cognitive functioning, memory, and executive function, most pronounced in the third trimester.
- These cognitive deficits appear to develop early in pregnancy.
- Further research is needed to understand the impact on pregnant women's quality of life and daily functioning.
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