Story perspectives

Pregnancy Boosts Cognitive Abilities in Postmenopausal Women

2/11/2026

Summary

Story summary

A study from the University of California, Los Angeles found that pregnancy and breastfeeding may enhance cognitive abilities in postmenopausal women.
The analysis drew on data from more than 7,000 women aged 70 and older.
Each additional month of pregnancy correlated with slight increases in overall cognitive scores.
The study suggests these reproductive experiences could lead to long-term cognitive resilience, potentially comparable to benefits from not smoking or staying active.

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Story summary

A study from the University of California, Los Angeles found that pregnancy and breastfeeding may enhance cognitive abilities in postmenopausal women.
The analysis drew on data from more than 7,000 women aged 70 and older.
Each additional month of pregnancy correlated with slight increases in overall cognitive scores.
The study suggests these reproductive experiences could lead to long-term cognitive resilience, potentially comparable to benefits from not smoking or staying active.