Cerebrovascular reactivity dynamics in the postpartum period: a pilot study

Motivation: Pregnancy induces various physiological changes across the body, including in the brain. Studies have shown structural brain changes in postpartum women, however neurovascular adaptations remain underexplored. Goal(s): Evaluate neurovascular changes during the postpartum period by measuring cerebrovascular reactivity (CVR) and delay (CVD). Approach: A group of 23 female participants (13 postpartum women, 10 women with no history of pregnancy) were studied using a 5% CO₂ gas challenge and BOLD fMRI. Results: Significant differences in CVD were observed in the paracingulate and cingulate gyrus, regions associated with salience, reward, and emotional processing networks. No differences in CVR amplitude were found. Impact: This is the first MRI study investigating cerebrovascular reactivity changes in the postpartum period. Significant differences in reactivity timing were observed in specific regions of the brain known to be related to salience/reward networks and emotion processing.