Matrescence: The Transition Into Motherhood
We spend months preparing for pregnancy, birth and our baby's arrival—but very few of us prepare for becoming a mother.
This transition has a name: matrescence.
Much like adolescence, matrescence describes the significant physical, emotional, hormonal, psychological and social changes that begin when a woman becomes a mother. While birth marks the start of this transition, adapting to your new role and identity unfolds gradually over time.
As a physiotherapist and now a mum myself I've experienced just how transformative this season can be. Becoming a mother isn't simply adding a baby to your family, it's a complete shift in identity, routine and priorities.
Why can it feel so overwhelming?
Alongside caring for a newborn, you're also navigating your own recovery, changing hormones, sleep deprivation, relationship changes and often a completely new sense of self.
You might find yourself thinking:
"I don't feel like myself anymore."
"Why does this feel harder than I expected?"
"Will I ever feel like me again?"
These thoughts are more common than many mums realise.
Social media often celebrates the newborn while overlooking the mother. But you matter too, and your wellbeing deserves attention.
Your body is changing too
As physiotherapists, we often talk about physical recovery after birth, but it's important to remember that your body is still adapting long after your baby arrives.
Depending on your birth experience, you may be recovering from:
A vaginal birth or Caesarean section
Pelvic floor changes
Abdominal muscle separation (diastasis recti)
Hormone changes and fluctuations
Feeding-related postural changes
Fatigue and reduced physical capacity
Recovery isn't about "bouncing back." It's about gradually rebuilding strength, confidence and trust in your body. There is no timeline you need to meet.
Looking after the mother
If it's financially possible, consider setting aside some funds for your own postpartum care during your pregnancy.
Our focus is often on preparing for our baby's arrival, the cot, pram, nursery, clothes and gadgets but many families don't budget for the mother's recovery.
If it's financially possible, consider setting aside some funds for your own postpartum care. Supporting your recovery isn't a luxury, it's an investment in your long-term physical and mental health.
Every mother's needs will be different, but your support team may include:
A Midwife, who can provide home visits during the first six weeks postpartum, offering guidance with your recovery, newborn care and feeding, all from the comfort of your home.
An International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) if you're experiencing breastfeeding or feeding challenges.
A Women's Health Physiotherapist to support your recovery after birth, pelvic floor, abdominal muscles and return to exercise.
An Acupuncturist to assist with pain management, recovery or general wellbeing.
A Postpartum Doula to provide practical, emotional and family support in those early weeks.
A Remedial Massage Therapist to help ease muscle tension from feeding, carrying and interrupted sleep.
A Psychologist if you're finding the emotional adjustment particularly challenging.
A Postpartum Meal Delivery Service (such as Dinner Ladies, Made for Mothers or Whole Bowl Co.) to help take the pressure off cooking while you recover.
A Cleaner, even if only for a short period, to help lighten the mental load and allow you to focus on yourself and your baby.
It takes a village to raise a child, and it also takes a village to support a mother 🤍
Simple ways to care for yourself
Often, the smallest things make the biggest difference.
Move your body with gentle walks and appropriate postpartum exercises.
Join a local Mother's Group to connect with other mums navigating a similar season.
If someone offers to cook a meal, fold the washing or pick up groceries, say yes.
Nourish yourself with regular, balanced meals and plenty of fluids.
Prioritise rest where you can. It may not always mean sleep, even sitting down with a cup of tea while your baby naps can help you recharge.
Stay connected with family, friends or other mums. You don't have to do this alone.
Speak to yourself with kindness and compassion. You're learning something completely new.
When should you seek support?
The transition into motherhood is a huge adjustment, and it's completely normal to have challenging days.
However, if you’re feeling persistently overwhelmed, anxious, low, disconnected from your baby or yourself, or finding it difficult to manage day-to-day life, it’s important to reach out for support.
Support can come from many places, including:
Your GP
Your Midwife or Child and Family Health nurse
A Psychologist
Helpful Australian Resources
If you need extra support during your postpartum journey, these trusted Australian organisations are a great place to start:
PANDA – Support for perinatal anxiety and depression. panda.org.au
The Gidget Foundation Australia – Perinatal mental health support and psychology services. gidgetfoundation.org.au
Australian Breastfeeding Association – Breastfeeding education, support and a 24-hour helpline. breastfeeding.asn.au
Pregnancy, Birth & Baby – Free Australian Government information and advice for new parents. pregnancybirthbaby.org.au
Healthdirect Australia – Trusted health information and access to 24/7 health advice (healthdirect.gov.au).
Raising Children Network – Evidence-based information on newborns, child development and parenting (raisingchildren.net.au).
You deserve support
Matrescence is a season of enormous change. While it can be filled with incredible moments of love and joy, it can also feel challenging, overwhelming and unfamiliar.
You don't have to navigate this transition alone.
At Kaylana Wellness Collective, we’re passionate about supporting mothers through their postpartum recovery. Whether you've had a vaginal birth or Caesarean section, we can help you reconnect with your body, rebuild confidence and safely return to the activities you love.
Caring for yourself is not taking away from your baby, it’s an important part of caring for your family.
Because when we support mothers, we support families 🤍
Disclaimer: The information in this blog is intended for general educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. If you have concerns about your physical or mental health, or your baby's wellbeing, please seek advice from your GP or another qualified healthcare professional.