Jodie, founder of Flourish Wellbeing, specialises in women's health and matrescence, offering global coaching to empower mothers through their transformative journey.
Matrescence is a term that is gaining recognition in the field of motherhood and women's health. It describes the profound and transformative journey a woman undergoes when she becomes a mother. Understanding Matrescence is crucial for both new mothers and those supporting them, as it highlights the significant physical, emotional, and psychological changes that accompany motherhood. This journey is not only about the baby; it's also about the mother's metamorphosis, which deserves attention and support.
History of matrescence
The term "Matrescence" was first coined by anthropologist Dana Raphael in the 1970s. Raphael, who is also known for her work on breastfeeding and the support systems around it, used Matrescence to describe the developmental transition women experience as they become mothers. Just as adolescence marks the transition from childhood to adulthood, Matrescence signifies the shift into motherhood. Despite its importance, the concept remained relatively obscure until recently, when it began to gain more attention in both academic and popular discussions about motherhood.
In recent years, the work of reproductive psychiatrist Dr. Alexandra Sacks has brought Matrescence into the mainstream. Through her articles, talks, and books, Dr. Sacks has helped to normalise the experiences of new mothers, advocating for the recognition of Matrescence as a significant and challenging phase of life. By comparing it to adolescence, she highlights that the changes are not just physical but also involve profound psychological and social adjustments.
Amy Taylor-Kabbaz, an Australian journalist turned Motherhood and Matrescence Activist has also been working hard over the past 10 years to bring the word of Matrescence to the world. Through her online courses and her Mama Rising ICF accredited coaching certification (which I have completed), she is teaching women all over the world how to support mothers through this monumental transition.
What is matrescence?
Matrescence is the process of becoming a mother. It encompasses the complex interplay of hormonal, physical, emotional, and social changes that occur during this time. Unlike the more commonly discussed postpartum period, which focuses primarily on the immediate aftermath of childbirth, Matrescence recognises that the transformation into motherhood is ongoing and multifaceted. It is a period of identity reformation, where a woman integrates her new role as a mother with her pre-exsisting sense of self.
Matrescence is not a one-size-fits-all experience. Each woman's journey is unique, influenced by her personal, cultural, and societal context. It can start during pregnancy and continue for years after childbirth. Recognizing this helps to validate the diverse experiences of mothers and underscores the need for personalized support and understanding.
5 monumental shifts in matrescence
1. Identity transformation
Becoming a mother fundamentally alters a woman's sense of identity. She must reconcile her new role with her previous self, which can lead to feelings of loss, confusion, and ultimately, growth. This shift often involves redefining personal goals, values, and priorities to accommodate the responsibilities of motherhood.
The identity shift can be jarring. A woman may grieve the loss of her pre-motherhood self while simultaneously celebrating her new role. This duality can be confusing and emotionally taxing. It's important for new mothers to give themselves grace and time to adjust to their evolving identity.
2. Emotional fluctuations
Matrescence brings a roller-coaster of emotions, from overwhelming love and joy to anxiety and doubt. The emotional highs and lows are a normal part of this transition as women adjust to their new roles and the intense demands of caring for a newborn.
Hormonal changes play a significant role in these emotional fluctuations. The drop in oestrogen and progesterone after childbirth can contribute to mood swings and postpartum depression. Additionally, the immense responsibility of caring for a new life can lead to feelings of inadequacy and fear. Seeking support from mental health professionals, family, and friends can help manage these emotions.
3. Spiritual changes
Many women experience profound spiritual changes during Matrescence. This period can be a time of spiritual awakening, where a woman reassesses her beliefs, values, and sense of purpose. The experience of creating and nurturing new life often leads to a deeper connection with the self and the universe.
The spiritual awakening in Matrescence can manifest in various ways. Some women may feel a heightened sense of intuition, a stronger connection to nature, or an increased sense of empathy and compassion. Others might find themselves questioning their existing spiritual beliefs and exploring new ones. This spiritual transformation can provide a sense of meaning and fulfilment, helping women navigate the challenges of motherhood with a renewed sense of purpose.
4. Relationship dynamics
The arrival of a child can alter relationships with partners, family, and friends. Roles and responsibilities often shift, requiring renegotiation and adaptation. Strengthening communication and support systems is crucial to navigate these changes and maintain healthy relationships.
Partners may need to renegotiate household duties and childcare responsibilities, which can lead to tension if not addressed openly. Additionally, a new mother may experience changes in her social circle, as her priorities and available time shift. Building a supportive network of friends and family who understand and respect these changes is vital.
5. Social expectations and pressures
Society has various expectations and pressures regarding motherhood. Navigating these can be challenging, as women often face conflicting advice and judgements. Recognising and addressing these external pressures can help mothers find their own path and make choices that align with their values and needs.
The societal idealisation of motherhood often clashes with the reality, leading to feelings of inadequacy and guilt. Social media can exacerbate this by presenting unrealistic images of perfect motherhood. It's crucial for mothers to cultivate self-compassion and seek out realistic and supportive communities, both online and offline.
Conclusion
Understanding Matrescence is essential for appreciating the profound changes women experience when they become mothers. Recognising the identity transformation, emotional fluctuations, spiritual changes, shifts in relationship dynamics, and societal pressures helps to provide better support for new mothers. As we continue to bring awareness to Matrescence, we can foster a more compassionate and understanding environment for mothers navigating this transformative journey.
By acknowledging and validating the complexity of Matrescence, we can better support women in their journey to becoming mothers, helping them to thrive both as individuals and as parents. This awareness can also guide healthcare providers, employers, and policymakers in creating more supportive structures for mothers, ultimately benefiting families and society as a whole.
If you're navigating the transformative journey of motherhood and looking for support, inspiration, and practical advice, connect with me on social media! Follow me on Instagram for daily tips, empowering stories, and a community of mothers who understand what you're going through.
For personalized support, consider my coaching services designed specifically for mothers like you. Whether you need help with health and wellness goals, managing the emotional ups and downs, or finding your new identity as a mother, I'm here to help. Visit my website to learn more and schedule a free connection call.
Let's thrive together on this incredible journey of motherhood!
Read more from Jodie Abraham
Jodie Abraham, Women's Health & Matrescence Coach
Jodie isn't just a Nutrition, Health, and Wellness Coach – she's a compassionate advocate for mothers. With certifications as a Mama Rising Facilitator, Motherhood Coach, and Women's Health and Hormone Coach, Jodie brings expertise and empathy to her practice. As a mother of two who has experienced postnatal depletion and depression herself, she intimately understands the challenges of motherhood, offering non-judgemental support and practical guidance to mothers on their transformative journeys. She deeply believes all mothers deserve to thrive and flourish in motherhood.
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