Towards the end of pregnancy, thought patterns may change. Many notice that their thinking becomes more practical and concrete rather than abstract or long-term. This is not a sign of worry — it is a common shift in how the brain prioritises information in the later stages of pregnancy.

As pregnancy approaches its final phase, the brain may temporarily reduce its use of complex processing. More energy is required to maintain and stabilise the pregnancy, and the brain adjusts as well. It often simplifies processing and focuses more on clear, practical, and immediate concepts. This can include thoughts related to structure, order, repetition, and familiar routines.

Sleep patterns also change during late pregnancy. Sleep often becomes fragmented, which can affect how the brain manages multiple tracks of thought. In response, the brain prioritises what is most accessible and concrete.

This does not mean that abstract thinking is lost — it is simply used less during this period. The brain is reorganising, not diminishing.

This is a documented and common form of cognitive adjustment in late pregnancy.

Alma’s tips 🌿

• It is common for thinking to become more concrete toward the end of pregnancy.

• The brain often prioritises clear and manageable information when the body works more internally.

• Sleep and energy levels can affect how many thoughts the brain handles at once.

• This is a change in how the brain works — not in ability.