Many pregnant people find themselves crying at films they once watched dry-eyed, or unable to read news stories about children, loss, or injustice. The world suddenly feels sharper, heavier, more vivid. But it isn’t the world that changed — it’s your brain.

During pregnancy, the parts of the brain that process empathy, recognition, and emotional meaning become more active. This is nature’s preparation for parenthood. Your brain grows more sensitive to tone, expression, and story — especially those that involve connection and protection. It’s the same reason many feel deeper bonds with people, animals, or even music during this time.

You’re not “overreacting.” You’re responding with your whole system. Your body is practising how to sense and interpret emotion — skills you’ll soon use to read your baby’s signals.

Still, it can be tiring to feel so much, especially in a world where every screen carries something that moves you. It’s okay to protect your energy.

Alma’s advice:

• Let yourself be moved — it’s your heart and brain learning tenderness.

• Take breaks from news or media when it feels heavy.

• Your heart hasn’t become weaker — it’s simply grown wider.

Feeling deeply isn’t losing control. It’s your biology learning love.