According to previous research, women’s brains undergo changes during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Several studies have shown that some women experience temporary cognitive challenges during pregnancy, particularly related to memory.
When it comes to life after menopause, research findings have been mixed.
Some studies have pointed to better cognitive outcomes among women who have breastfed, while others have not found clear associations.
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Data and methods
A new study, published in Alzheimer’s & Dementia, used data from two large U.S. long-term studies of older women: the Women’s Health Initiative Memory Study and the Study of Cognitive Aging.
The women completed ongoing cognitive tests that measured, among other things, overall thinking ability and memory.
Information on pregnancy and breastfeeding was collected through questionnaires at the start of the study.
The results were analyzed with adjustments for factors such as age, education, and genetic risk, the researchers report.
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Better results
Pregnancy and breastfeeding were associated with slightly higher scores on cognitive tests in old age, but not with a slower rate of decline over time.
The researchers behind the study emphasize, however, that the differences are small.
The study therefore cannot draw firm conclusions about cause and effect and should not be used as a basis for decisions about pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Sources: News Medical, and Alzheimer’s & Dementia.
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