Exploring the Physiological and Psychological Changes in Postpartum Women, often referred to as Matrescence
In the realm of motherhood, a lesser-known yet significant term is gaining traction: Matrescence. Coined by anthropologist Dana Raphael in the 1970s, matrescence refers to the deep, multi-layered transformation a person undergoes when becoming a mother. This transformation includes physical, emotional, psychological, and neurological changes and is recognized as a complex and ongoing process that can peak postpartum but continues throughout a mother’s lifetime, from the pursuit of motherhood through grandmotherhood.
Matrescence sets motherhood apart from just a role, framing it as an evolving identity and developmental phase, akin to adolescence in complexity and impact. Recognizing matrescence highlights the profound personal growth and challenges women face during this transition, which influences their mental health, career progression, leadership potential, and social dynamics.
While adolescence is widely studied and socially acknowledged, matrescence remains less widely recognized and supported, especially in workplaces. This oversight leads to issues like burnout among working mothers and high turnover, despite mothers’ enhanced leadership capacities through this process.
The challenges of matrescence are not personal weaknesses but a natural and demanding part of development. Modern mothers face unique pressures, including unrealistic expectations of motherhood, erosion of community support, economic pressures, and time poverty. In America's individualistic culture, asking for help is often perceived as weakness, leading to many mothers sidelining their mental health needs to maintain the appearance of control and capability.
Social media creates a curated illusion of "effortless motherhood," leading many women to feel inadequate. The pressure to "do it all" and excel in both career and parenting often leads to burnout and self-doubt. Many mothers feel forced to return to work quickly after childbirth, leaving little time to process the physical and emotional changes they are experiencing. Traditional, multi-generational support systems have dwindled in modern American society, leaving many mothers feeling isolated.
Hormones significantly impact women during matrescence, causing rapid fluctuations in levels of estrogen, progesterone, and oxytocin, leading to a range of physical and emotional changes. Invisible labor significantly impacts matrescence by placing a mental and emotional burden on mothers, leading to feelings of exhaustion, stress, resentment, "mom-rage," and decreased overall well-being.
Capitalism places value on productivity and output, which translates into a society where paid work is prioritized over caregiving. The lack of affordable childcare, paid parental leave, and comprehensive postpartum care reflects systemic oversight in addressing the struggles of matrescence.
By naming matrescence and bringing it into public discourse, we can begin to rewrite the narrative of motherhood, centering empathy and community in a culture that so desperately needs both. Creating spaces for honest conversations, offering mental health resources, and advocating for systemic changes can help address the challenges of matrescence.
In conclusion, matrescence parallels adolescence in its complexity and profound life changes, but it is distinct in occurring as a response to motherhood, involving unique biological and social transitions. Recognizing and supporting matrescence is essential for understanding the experiences and needs of modern mothers, both personally and professionally.
- Therapists familiar with the concept of matrescence could provide valuable support for women navigating the complex transformation of motherhood, addressing mental health concerns related to this developmental phase.
- Incorporating matrescence education into health-and-wellness programs within communities and workplaces could promote a better understanding of the challenges mothers face during this transitional stage, potentially reducing burnout and improving overall well-being.
- By fostering a supportive community that understands the concept of matrescence, we can help eradicate the stigma associated with seeking mental health assistance during this crucial phase of a woman's life, particularly in relation to motherhood and parenting.
- Science and research in the field of women's health should prioritize the study of matrescence, as understanding the neurological, psychological, and emotional changes that occur during this time could lead to better mental health therapies and interventions for women at all life stages.
