Cognitive function of pregnant women: the problem of postoperative cognitive dysfunction in women after labor
The problem of postoperative cognitive dysfunction is relevant in obstetrics due to the initial psychophysiological state of a pregnant woman and the high frequency of abdominal delivery everywhere. When choosing the optimal method of anesthesia for a cesarean section, which would minimally affect cognitive functions, it is necessary to consider the impact of anesthesia on the memory and attention of puerperas, as well as their initial cognitive status. To assess memory and attention in women of reproductive age, in our opinion, the most appropriate tests are the MoCA-test, Benton test, Wechsler test, hospital anxiety and depression scale, and a self-assessment questionnaire. These tests are recommended by psychophysiologists and have proven themselves to be well applied in daily clinical practice. Standard test kits with a formalized (quantitative) evaluation of the results allow a rapid assessment of several cognitive functions in a limited time. This review article presents the problem of the cognitive function of pregnant women and postoperative cognitive dysfunction during pregnancy.