The project

BeMother has used several methods for the study. First, saliva and urine samples are taken from the participants for subsequent quantification. The aim is to assess hormones (oxytocin, progesterone, estrogen and cortisol) and other metabolomic measures. During the study, the aim is to characterize how the brain changes during pregnancy and determine if there is a relationship with hormonal and metabolomics changes. On the other hand, clinical and neuropsychological assessments are carried out to evaluate various aspects of the brain and relate this to postpartum mental disorders. The last technique used is magnetic resonance, the BeMother project uses the equipment of the Pasqual Maragall Foundation. The goal is to obtain brain images of maximum resolution. MRI does not cause pain or any known damage to brain tissue.

The study consists of several sessions: before, during and after pregnancy in which the mentioned tests are carried out. The aim is to observe the changes in the brains of women who have considered becoming pregnant and to monitor them.

Controls are also an important part of the study, they are women with no intention of having children in the next two years and who undergo the same visits and techniques as the rest of the participants.