Making space for motherhood

Remember, those awkward teen years where your body changed, your relationships with people around you changed, and your hormones were running wild? That’s adolescence for you. A time of big changes for you and those around you as you transitioned between childhood and adulthood. 

Women go through a similar change when entering motherhood, but instead of transitioning from a child to an adult, it a transition from a womanhood to motherhood. This process is called “matrescence”. It is a profound and complex process that involves physical, emotional, psychological, and social changes. Although the physical changes happen over months, it can take years for mothers to adjust to their new identity and role. 

Unlike adolescence, matrescence is often overlooked in society. Women feel expected to have a baby, and somehow go back to being the same person they were before baby – at work, at home, and in life. There are many visible and invisible challenges that come with being a mother, but women often feel isolated by these challenges because we don't make space for them to be vulnerable, imperfect, and human during this change. 

We can start making space for women to become mothers by recognizing that matrescence is a real and valid phenomenon that deserves our attention and respect. We can listen to mothers and their stories, validate their experiences and emotions, and by offer support and compassion. 

By helping mothers embrace their new identity and role, discover their strengths and passions, and find their balance and purpose we can help moms thrive, not just survive. We can make space for mothers to be themselves. 

Here are some ways to help make space for yourself during your transition to motherhood: 

• Share your birth stories and how you felt during and after labor. 

• If you are breastfeeding, talk about your challenges and successes. 

• Seek professional help if you are experiencing symptoms of postpartum depression or anxiety. 

• Join a support group or a community of other mothers who understand what they're going through. 

• Take time for self-care and do things that make you happy and relaxed. 

• Pursue you career goals or hobbies without feeling guilty or judged. 

• Ask for help from your partner, family, or friends when they need it. 

• Set boundaries and say no to things that drain your energy or time. 

• Celebrate your motherhood milestones! 

• Express gratitude for your child(ren) and the opportunity to be a mother.