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What Makes the Relationship Between a Mother and Her Child Unique?

What Makes the Relationship Between a Mother and Her Child Unique? (0:38)

There are emotional and physical changes that occur with motherhood. Watch Darria Long Gillespie, MD, explain the connections between a mother her child.

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Motherhood is an undeniable force. But, it's also a biochemical one. Due to surges in hormones such as oxitocin, during pregnancy and after birth, a mother's brain literally undergoes physical changes. These changes include expansion to the areas controlling empathy and vigilance. It may explain the desire to protect and dote on her baby.

Even for moms who adopt, the brain has the same response when interacting with their babies making the connection between a mother and her child miraculous combination of science and spirit.