What is Matrescence?

Matrescence is a term used to describe the transition to becoming a mother. Matrescence, is a term coined in the 70's by medical anthropologist Dana Raphael. 

Like adolescence, matrescence is also a transitionary period. Being pregnant is like going through puberty all over again: your hormones go wild, your hair and skin don’t behave the way you’d like, and you develop a new relationship with a body that seems to have a mind of its own. 

what’s the difference between adolescence and matrescence? Society and education accept adolescent and puberty as an awkward and developmental phase. But during matrescence, people expect you to be happy while you’re losing control over the way you look and feel, or after you give birth, to snap back to the person you were before you were pregnant. 

Is Matrescence the Baby Blues?

No. The Baby Blues is generally refereed to as a period of sadness, high emotions, which usually starts shortly after the baby is born and lasts a couple of days. It is brought on by the intense hormonal changes happening in the body. So although it may be difficult time, it is the body working it's magic. Not everyone suffers the baby blues, where as some tend to have a more intense case than others. 

It is very important to note, that if your baby blues last for more than a few days, or you are having thoughts of hurting yourself or your child, you must speak to a medical professional ASAP. 

 

How can you prepare for matrescence? 

what should Mums-top-be do before they enter matrescece?

  • Start taking prenatals again if you haven't been doing so consistently
  • start exercising regularly
  • Eat well, ensuring you are having adequate intake of protein 
  • get massages (or take baths); hire postpartum doulas who will help with housework or childcare duties during this special time period so that both parents can enjoy their new babies without feeling stressed out or overwhelmed by chores at home

What happens after the baby arrives?

  • You will be exhausted.

  • You'll be sore (especially your back).

  • You will be emotional, sometimes in good ways and sometimes not so much.

  • Your priorities will change.  

  • Hormonal changes are a reality for new mothers: don't worry if you cry at the drop of a hat or feel like you're on an emotional roller coaster ride--it's normal! If it gets too much for you though, talk with your partner or a friend who has gone through similar experiences and seek professional help if necessary.

  • Breastfeeding is another factor that can contribute to postpartum depression (PPD). PPD often occurs when mothers have trouble breastfeeding their babies because they aren't producing enough milk or experience pain while doing so; these factors can lead to feelings of guilt over not meeting expectations as well as pressure from family members who may want their grandchild fed only by breast milk rather than formula (or vice versa). If this sounds familiar then reach out to someone and stand your ground. You cannot suffer in silence. 

Being aware of what your body is going through during this time and how to keep yourself healthy and strong.

During pregnancy, your body is going through a lot of changes. Your organs are rearranging themselves to make room for the baby and you're gaining weight as you eat more food than normal. After birth, your body will go through another big change as it learns how to feed and care for a newborn baby. It's important to know what happens during these times so that you can take care of yourself properly!

Here are some tips:

  • Stay active by walking around every day (even if it's just around the house). This helps keep up circulation in your body while reducing swelling from fluid buildup in feet or legs; plus it gives an opportunity for stretching muscles which have been tightened up by carrying extra weight around all day long!

  • Drink plenty of water throughout each day because dehydration can cause fatigue during pregnancy/postpartum periods due to hormonal changes affecting hydration needs at different stages throughout each trimester/yearlong period surrounding giving birth."

Conclusion

In the end, matrescence is a time of great change in your life. You are becoming a mother and there will be many challenges that come with this role. But remember that you're not alone! We've all been there before so if you need any help or advice feel free to reach out and we'll do our best to help out.