Television actress Rubina Dilaik, who became the mother of twin daughters in November 2023, shared her postpartum experience in a recent podcast. She revealed that after becoming a mother, her memory had significantly weakened.
Rubina mentioned that she often forgets which baby she has fed, prompting her to keep a diary to track feeding schedules. Let’s delve into why women experience memory loss after delivery and how they can prevent it.
Momnesia: What Is It?
Approximately 50 to 70 per cent of women experience a condition called “momnesia” after delivery, where they struggle to remember things. This condition, medically termed “momnesia,” occurs when women find it challenging to recall details post-delivery.
Causes of Momnesia
- Increased Stress Levels: The stress levels of many women increase after becoming mothers, leading to mental fatigue and difficulty remembering things.
- Sleep Deprivation: Postpartum, women often have to stay awake throughout the night to attend to their babies’ needs, leading to inadequate sleep, which contributes to memory issues.
- Hormonal Changes: After delivery, women experience hormonal fluctuations that affect their brain function, making it harder for them to remember things.
- Dietary Factors: Inadequate nutrition post-delivery can also impact brain function, contributing to memory problems.
Prevention of Momnesia
To prevent or alleviate momnesia, women can consider the following measures:
- Stress Management: Engage in stress-relieving activities such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, or yoga.
- Adequate Sleep: Prioritize getting enough sleep by establishing a consistent sleep schedule and seeking support from partners or family members to share nighttime caregiving responsibilities.
- Nutritious Diet: Ensure that your diet is rich in essential nutrients, vitamins, and minerals to support brain health and function.
- Listen to Music: Listening to calming music can help reduce stress and improve mood, which may indirectly enhance memory function.
- Seek Support: Don’t hesitate to seek help from friends, family, or support groups. Sharing responsibilities and experiences can alleviate stress and improve overall well-being.
By implementing these strategies, women can better manage postpartum memory issues and enjoy a smoother transition into motherhood. It’s essential for every woman to be aware of momnesia and take proactive steps to address it effectively.