A research team at Yale carried out brain scans on 12 women two to four weeks after they had given birth - known as the early postpartum period.
Half had a Caesarean, the other half gave birth naturally.
The differences in brain activity were found in regions that not only appeared to influence a mother's response to her child, but also to regulate her mood.
It seems oxytocin, the 'love' hormone is a critical factor in the bonding process.The researchers suggest that women who have caesareans should be encouraged to cuddle their babies straight after birth.
I think this is all a bit problematic. Sure we have known for quite a long time that oxytocin does a number of important things for birth and bonding. Yet, making sweeping claims on the basis of a sample of 12? Hmmm.
Anyone have a different experience? Did you have a caesarean? How was your bonding experience? Did you get to cuddle your baby straight away? If not, how long did you have to wait?
Source: http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/health/7594282.stm
