Matrescence

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Matrescence was first coined by Dr Dana Raphael  (an anthropologist) in the 1970s. She described it as "the time of mother-becoming". Matrescence is the word given to describe the ongoing developmental process of journeying to and through motherhood. In a similar way to adolescence, it is a time of rapid, significant change across many different domains of an individual's life. Although this process of becoming a mother can feel bewildering, it is ultimately a process of growth and transformation. Matrescence is a normal, natural adjustment process that all mothers navigate, to varying degrees. Each mother's matrescence is unique to her.

Matrescence gives a name, a framework and an explanation to one of the most challenging and disorientating experiences a woman can experience, as a result of all the (normal) rapid change she is confronted with. 

Matrescence is largely unknown and unexplored by our culture. It is rarely acknowledged by the medical community and those providing antenatal and postnatal care.

In fact, most people have never heard of matrescence.

Thankfully, matrescence has been gaining more attention and research in recent times. This has the potential to make such a positive impact on the psychological wellbeing of mothers and their families. 

Now there is an explanation for how they are feeling. This can be so validating and empowering for mothers.

Matrescence requires support, compassion and understanding. It’s one of the most important concepts that parents, health providers, employers, politicians and society need to know about!

The Postpartum Psychologist provides matrescence education and support. Please get in touch for further details and updates on upcoming workshops.

You can also read more about matrescence through the works of matrescence scholars, academics, writers and teachers: Dr Dana Raphael, Trudelle Thomas, Dr Aurelie Athan, Dr Alexandra Sacks, Nikki McCahon, Amy Taylor Kabbaz, Dr Sophie Brock, Jessie Harold and Lucy Jones. To mention only a few!