Each pregnancy alters your body irrevocably. And we don’t mean the stretch marks or the scars. We mean the forever-changed DNA. Ask any new mother and she’ll list out a litany of things that are now different for her. Like a forgetful mommy brain that, according to science, makes the mother-child bond stronger.
We at Bright Side salute all moms and believe that they are real-life superheroes. To honor all mothers, we found some mommy facts proving there’s nothing like a mother’s love. Or the science behind it.
1. Motherhood changes you, and your DNA.
A chimera is a legendary beast made of different animals. And we are likening mothers to chimeras because every child that a mother carries leaves their DNA inside her. Basically, fetal cells enter a mother’s bloodstream and stay in her body forever. Researchers allege that these cells can affect the mother both positively and negatively. On one hand, it can speed up healing but on the flip side, it can increase the risk of cancer.
So when they say motherhood changes you, it does so at an elemental level as well. Jennifer Garner’s stunning countenance reflects just that.
2. The baby can taste what their mother eats.
Studies show that what a mother eats flavors the amniotic fluid. Something a baby gulps down several times a day. Basically, a baby can taste what their mother eats from within the womb.
A study showed that infants whose mothers ate carrots while pregnant seemed to enjoy cereal prepared with carrot juice more than others. So if you want to develop your baby’s palate for healthy, crunchy veggies, chow down on them while you are pregnant.
3. Kissing babies is more “healing” than we think.
Any new mom will tell you that the urge to kiss a newborn is intense. It’s innate and biological in nature. And science says that when mothers kiss their babies, it’s not just love, it’s medicine.
A mother’s body samples the pathogens found on the baby’s face, and more magic happens within her own body. Especially to her breastmilk, the main source of nutrition and immunity for the baby.
4. Pregnant women make enormous amounts of estrogen.
Pregnancy sends a woman’s body into overdrive. The uterus expands to 500 times its normal size and then shrinks back after birth. The blood volume increases and to tackle that, the heart expands a little too.
And it’s not just this, a woman makes more estrogen in a single pregnancy than she would in her whole lifetime if she never got pregnant. There’s a reason why women are exhausted when expecting and need sleep and rest for a healthy delivery and recovery.
5. A mother’s smile is near magical.
Moms are near magic, and so is their smile or affection. While you need your mother at all ages, it’s the helpless infant who is most dependent on their mom.
Studies show that when mothers smile, coo, and show affection to their babies, their heartbeats synchronize into the same beat. So if a baby is distressed, it calms them down. This is the reason why newborns need mothers the most when they are fussy and refuse to be calmed down by other family members.
6. Carrying boys can make you more nauseous.
There’s a reason why little boys are made of “snips and snails and puppy dog tails” or so goes the nursery rhyme. This is because mothers who carry boys are more likely to be nauseous in the first and second trimesters, a study shows.
This is not to say that women expecting girls cannot have morning sickness or that all women who carry boys have more nausea. It’s just that if you are expecting a boy, chances are you may experience more nausea or food aversions.
7. Babies name their mamas.
“Mom, mama, mummy, mamma, ammi, ma, me, emi, mimi.” There’s a pattern in the name for mother in all languages and this is because the “em” sounds are usually the first vocalization for a baby. It’s also the easiest sound a baby can make while babbling. And so it’s our babies who name us and call us mamas.
8. The mommy brain fog is very real.
If you see new moms looking lost, there’s a scientific reason for this. Each pregnancy affects a woman’s brain and makes her lose gray matter. The effects last for around 2 years. Science says that this temporary bewilderment makes mothers closer to their babies as well.
That said, the gray matter regenerates and any confusion or forgetfulness is passing. The bond between a mother and her child is permanent.
9. A mother’s voice is as soothing as a hug.
A study has shown that a mother’s voice, even on the telephone, is as calming as a hug. Researchers introduced stress to a group of girls and then had 1/3 of them hug their mothers, another 1/3 of them talk to their mothers, and 1/3 watched an emotionally neutral film. The girls who spoke to their mothers calmed down much faster, just like those who hugged.
This proves that if you are under stress, your mother’s voice can flood oxytocin into your bloodstream, making you feel better. And we think Jennifer Garner already knows that, pictured here with her mother.
10. Babies can cry in the womb.
The baby’s first cry is not post-birth, rather studies now show that they can express displeasure inside the womb. This can happen as early as 28 weeks gestation.
Researchers played low-decibel sounds on the mother’s belly and could see that the baby opened their mouth and exhibited crying-like behavior. But it’s a silent cry. Researchers also added that this in-vitro crying was nothing the mother should worry about.
11. Pregnancies leave women vulnerable to tooth decay.
Pregnant women are at risk for tooth decay and there are many reasons why. The changes in diet due to cravings may give some women a sweet tooth and the hormones that cause nausea, meaning more acidity on your mouth, to mention a few. This leads to gum disease and decay.
A simple way to prevent it all is by making oral health a priority, especially when you are pregnant.
12. The earliest milk bottle use came to be 7,000 years ago.
As it turns out, the breast/bottle debate is prehistoric. And mamas back then were pretty innovative too. Researchers have found little clay vessels, some shaped into mythical animals with hands and feet, with milk residue in them.
The earliest of them date back to 7,000 years ago and have been identified as prehistoric feeding bottles for babies. The dairy residue has been identified as breastmilk and milk from a cow, sheep, or goat.
13. The Ice Age made human breast milk more nutritious.
Human beings need sunlight to survive because our bodies only synthesize vitamin D in the sun. Allegedly, the last Ice Age should have wiped us out because newborns were not getting any vitamin D, considering the intense cold and lack of sunshine.
Scientists believe that a genetic tweak happened and mothers could transmit vitamin D and essential fatty acids to their newborn babies, and this may have ensured human survival.
14. Pregnancies can be contagious.
A study of more than 30,000 women conducted in Germany has indicated that pregnancy is contagious. It spreads from woman to woman in workplaces, in an endearing way. The results stated that “in the year after a colleague gives birth, transition rates to first pregnancies double.”
So if you are in the workplace and someone is pregnant, expect more pregnancies to pop up.
15. Most mammal moms carry their babies on the left.
Human mothers and even some mammal mamas cradle their babies on the left side of their bodies, closer to their heart. This is irrespective of a left-handed or right-handed mom. Science says that all the sensory information that comes from the left side of the body is processed on the right side of the brain.
The right side is where all the emotions are. And surprisingly enough, babies prefer to keep their moms on their left side as well, so it works for both mom and babe.
Bonus: Celebrity moms speak about motherhood.
Rosie Huntington-Whiteley
“I did start to feel this new sense of life. And now my confidence is so much greater.”
Lauren Burnham Luyendyk
“Breastfeeding is one of the hardest things I’ve ever done. I’m in awe of the ladies that make it look so effortless, and even the ones who don’t, you are superheroes.”
Do you have any other experiences as a child or a mother that show us that moms are actual superhumans? Share your motherhood stories with us and spread the joy.
Please note: This article was updated in June 2022 to correct source material and factual inaccuracies.
Preview photo credit laurenluyendyk / Instagram
The Meaning of the Three-Dot Tattoo: A Comprehensive Guide to Russian Prison Tattoos
Are you curious about the fascinating world of Russian prison tattoos? One of the most intriguing symbols you may come across is the three-dot tattoo. In this article, we will explore the various meanings behind this unique tattoo design.
Symbolism and Interpretations
The three-dot tattoo holds different meanings, each with its own significance. One interpretation is its connection to the Buddhist monkeys, which symbolize secrecy and silence. This meaning suggests that individuals with this tattoo prefer to keep their personal lives private.
Another interpretation is related to the number of dots in the tattoo. It can represent the length of a person’s prison sentence. The more dots there are, the longer the individual has spent behind bars. This symbolism serves as a reminder of their past experiences and the challenges they have faced.
The Harsh Reality of Prison Tattoos
Tattoos in prison are not created under ideal conditions. They are often done using improvised tools and in unsanitary environments, making them difficult to remove. These tattoos serve as permanent reminders of a person’s time in prison and the struggles they have endured.
Stigmatization and Discrimination
While these tattoos hold symbolic meanings within the prison community, they can also lead to stigmatization and discrimination for former inmates in the outside world. Society may judge individuals based on their tattoos, making it harder for them to reintegrate into society and find employment.
It is important to understand the significance of these tattoos, but it is equally crucial to treat individuals with empathy and respect, regardless of their past experiences.
Join us on this journey as we delve deeper into the captivating world of Russian prison tattoos and uncover the meanings behind these intriguing symbols.
Stay tuned for more fascinating insights and stories!
Removing Prison Tattoos
Removing prison tattoos can be a difficult process. These tattoos are often done under harsh conditions, using improvised tools, and with poor hygiene. As a result, they are usually not aesthetically pleasing and can also pose health risks. However, professional tattoo artists can use laser technology to specifically target the ink particles and gradually remove the tattoo. It is important to note that this process often requires multiple sessions and can be painful.
Examples from Criminal History
There have been cases where tattoos have played a role in solving crimes. For example, a robbery at a gas station in Berlin was solved thanks to the distinctive neck tattoo of the perpetrator. Similarly, in the United States, a detailed chest tattoo led to the conviction of a gang member for murder. These various interpretations and examples demonstrate that prison tattoos not only have a long-standing tradition but can also be helpful to law enforcement agencies in solving crimes.
The Deeper Meaning of the Three-Dot Tattoo: A Trace of Crime and Freedom
The three-dot tattoo on the left hand is one of the most well-known prison tattoos and carries a deep symbolic meaning. The three dots represent the three wise monkeys from Buddhism, who see no evil, hear no evil, and speak no evil. This depiction symbolizes silence about criminal activities and turning a blind eye to crime within the prison community. It serves as a sign of loyalty among criminals and acts as a recognition mark in the outside world.
The Meaning of the Prison Tear
Another common interpretation of the three-dot tattoo is related to the so-called prison tear. After ten years of imprisonment, an inmate is allowed to have a tear tattooed to mark their time in prison. The longer someone has spent behind bars, the more tears can be added. This tattoo thus symbolizes the severity of the committed crime and the lengthy stay in prison.
Tattoos as Stigmatization for Former Inmates
Although prison tattoos are often done under difficult circumstances, they serve as recognition marks among inmates in the outside world. However, these tattoos also stigmatize former inmates and can lead to prejudice and discrimination. The visible tattoos make it difficult to integrate into society and lead a normal life after serving a prison sentence.
In conclusion, the three-dot tattoo holds various meanings and symbolizes secrecy, loyalty, and the length of a prison sentence. It is important to note that these interpretations can vary from region to region and from person to person. Nevertheless, the three-dot tattoo remains a well-known symbol associated with prison and is often linked to a criminal past.
The three-dot tattoo holds a deep meaning and has various interpretations, depending on the context and individual perspective. It is often associated with the prison system and criminal activities but can also symbolize personal identity and rebellion.
The Origin and Symbolism of the Three-Dot Tattoo
The three-dot tattoo, typically placed on the left hand, has its roots in Buddhist symbolism. It represents the three wise monkeys who see no evil, hear no evil, and speak no evil. In this context, the three dots symbolize a rejection of violence and wrongdoing.
Connection to Prison and Criminality
The three-dot tattoo is commonly linked to the prison system and is considered a mark for serious offenders. It is said that each dot represents ten years of imprisonment, with additional dots being added for longer sentences. For former inmates, this tattoo can serve as a symbol of their criminal past and may be perceived as a stigma.
Individual Interpretation and Identity Formation
Despite its association with criminality, the three-dot tattoo can also be individually interpreted. Some people choose this tattoo for aesthetic reasons or to express their rebellious nature. For them, it is a symbol of personal identity and self-expression.
The Dark Side of the Three-Dot Tattoo
However, it is important to note that there is also a darker side to the three-dot tattoo. Criminal organizations may use it as a marking for their members to signify their affiliation. In such cases, the tattoo can be seen as a warning or threat to others.
The Meaning in the Context of Society
The three-dot tattoo carries an ambivalent meaning in society. While it can be an interesting symbol of identity for some, others associate it with crime and violence. The interpretation and perception of this tattoo heavily depend on individual experiences and prejudices.
Dealing with the Three-Dot Tattoo
It is crucial to remember that not everyone who has a three-dot tattoo is necessarily a criminal or has a criminal past. Each person has their own story and reasons for choosing their tattoos. Therefore, it is advisable not to judge hastily and stigmatize people based on their appearance.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the three-dot tattoo is a symbol with a complex meaning that can be associated with both criminality and individual identity and rebellion. It is important to consider the various interpretations and contexts to avoid prejudices and stigmatizing people based on their outward appearance.
To summarize, the three-dot tattoo symbolizes strength, resilience, and overcoming obstacles. It serves as a personal statement of individual experiences and can hold different meanings depending on who wears it. It is a versatile tattoo with deep symbolic significance.
As we age, our interests and preferences change. It’s important to create content that resonates with older audiences, specifically those between the ages of 45 and 65. In this task, our core objective is to transform an article while keeping its essential meaning intact and enhancing its appeal to this demographic.
Understanding the Challenge
The article we’re working with is delivered in Markdown format, consisting of paragraphs, headings, quotes, and correlating images. Our goal is to create a friendly and easy-to-understand version that engages and connects with older readers. Let’s dive into the guidelines and get started!
Engaging Content for Older Audiences
Creating engaging content is crucial when targeting an older audience. To achieve this, we need to consider their preferences and interests. Let’s explore some effective strategies:
1. Simplify Language and Concepts
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2. Utilize Visuals
Visuals play a crucial role in engaging older readers. Incorporate relevant images and videos to enhance comprehension and capture attention. Visuals can also evoke emotions and create a more enjoyable reading experience.
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Consider the interests and concerns of older audiences when selecting topics. Addressing issues related to health, retirement, leisure activities, and personal growth can be particularly appealing. Tailor the content to provide valuable insights and practical advice.
4. Organize Information Effectively
Ensure the article is well-structured and easy to navigate. Use headings, subheadings, and bullet points to break down information into digestible chunks. This helps older readers follow the flow of the article and find the information they need quickly.
Conclusion
Transforming an article for an older audience involves keeping their interests and preferences in mind. By simplifying language, utilizing visuals, focusing on relevant topics, and organizing information effectively, we can create engaging and appealing content. Remember, friendly and easy-to-understand writing is key when connecting with older readers. Let’s create content that resonates with them and fosters a positive reading experience!
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