Remembering what it was like to have a brain!

[alicesmum]

I reckon it takes some time before the neurological effects of child-bearing on the brain really become apparent, but I am now completely convinced that, yes, I was definitely sharper, more ‘on the ball’ and generally more ‘with it’ in social and other situations before I started having babies.

DD is 2 and DS 3 months and I have noticed a general marked decline in my energy levels, my ability to concentrate, and even in my ability to make small talk with people. I wouldn’t say I feel vague ALL of the time, but probably most of the time. :sleeping:

I remember being able to go from social event to social event in my BC days (Before Children) and be bright eyed and bushy-tailed. I know that I am obviously way more tired nowadays than back then, but it’s something more than exhaustion. It’s a qualitatively different experience of the world. Like I’m in it, but I’m not (iykwim)! It’s a strange, slightly surreal feeling, sometimes almost as if the air is made of water. (Maybe that’s just what exhaustion feels like. I swear I don’t take drugs other than caffeine!!)

Is it just me, or have others experienced this as well?!?!?

[Funkychicken]

It's definately not just you! I have had this too and remember it stayed around longer after my 2nd was born, so I don't know what hope there is for me now that I have a third!:laughing:
Honestly, I think it is (and this is in no way based on any scientific knowledge) part of the physilogical mothering process. Like an in-built instinct to ensure that our babies are our priority. Just think, if we weren't like this, we wouldn't worry about them or have all those lovely instincts that tell us when baby is just about to wake, or that he/she needs an extra cuddle, or when they need us over some social engagement. And I would have to have superpowers if I was to try to continue my BC life and my AC life and pull it all off! :D

[SamanthaJane]

I reckon it starts from the moment of conception... delightful isn't it? :D

[Niki]

most of the time the only words coming out of my mouth is goo goo gaa gaa so no wonder im not as bright as before :laughing:

[mrsd]

Interesting thread, Alice'smum.

It's a standing joke at my work that I have no memory and I've noticed that I'm always worst straight after a baby for at least a few months ('cos that's just one more to remember!). And yes, Funkychicken, I think it gets worse the more you have, too !

My theory is that it's because our priorities have changed and we have so much more to remember. At work I may not always remember every bit of paperwork or dates (or appointments sometimes) but I try to remember my kids' important days at school and what they like and don't like on the lunches and which kid I told to do which job at which time etc - no wonder my memory for just work stuff is not as good as it used to be !

And there's some things I couldn't give a hoot about now that my childless friends don't understand - socialising after work for eg. is nowhere near as important as getting home to my kids ASAP. And I was never too fussed on what I wore - now I hardly think about it.

I reckon we just need to enjoy being Mums. There's lots of really smart ones out there - doctors, scientists, politicians (?) - so there's hope for us yet !

[draught]

I have definitely lost my "edge" since having kids - my OB assures me that when I eventually stop breastfeeding it will return....which would be nice! I used to be sharp, have a great memory, be able to recall details at the drop of a hat, and speak in coherant sentences............not anymore.

I am not bitter about it - I am sort of used to it after 3 1/2 years but it would be nice to be a bit more switched on - especially at work!

[~EmsMum~]

I reckon it starts from the moment of conception... delightful isn't it? :D

I agree :laughing: :laughing:

[MonkeyMum05]

It's because your brain is working over time, thinking for you... and your two kiddies! :D