It’s a common new parent scenario: mom wakes up almost instantly to baby’s cries while dad soundly sleeps through. Beyond the anecdotal shares, is there something to this?

It’s a valid phenomenon. Brain changes and hormonal shifts occur during pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum that lead to a biological sensitivity to respond to baby’s needs. This heightened sensitivity appears to be linked to the hormone oxytocin, often called the "love” or “cuddle” hormone. Oxytocin is crucial in bonding, social interaction, and maternal behaviors.

So, the next time you find yourself instantly awake by your baby's cry while others remain undisturbed, know it's not just in your head. Your biology, particularly the influence of oxytocin and brain changes related to motherhood, is at play, ensuring that you're always attuned to your baby's needs, day and night.