Brain and Behavioral Modifications That Accompany the Onset of Motherhood

Objective. To discuss the brain and behavioral modifications that accompany the onset of motherhood. Design. Following a consideration of the evolutionary significance of the emergence of nurturing and caring responses in mammals, a thorough analysis of neurobiological modifications thought to maintain maternal responses in both rodent models and humans is presented. Results. The dramatic neurobiological changes accompanying the onset of parental responses provide a unique model for investigating the dynamic nature of the brain in response to changing demands. Conclusions. As conveyed throughout this tutorial, the maternal brain is a striking example of the adaptation necessary for various aspects of mammalian survival.