Navigating Matrescence in Scotland: The Hidden Challenges of New Motherhood

Motherhood is often described as beautiful, rewarding, and life-changing. But what if I told you it’s more than just a new role, it’s a complete transformation of self?

Mum and Newborn - Let the Transformation Begin

There’s a term for this shift: matrescence. Coined by anthropologist Dana Raphael, it describes the physical, emotional, psychological, and social changes women experience when becoming mothers. It’s like adolescence - messy, profound, and entirely normal.

For many mums, whether you’re bouncing a pram over the cobbles of Edinburgh, walking round Linlithgow Loch, or grabbing a much-needed coffee in Falkirk, this change to “Mummy” can feel overwhelming. Recognising that it’s natural can be hugely empowering.

It Helps to Meet Other New Mums

Why Don’t We Talk About Matrescence More?

Despite being universal, matrescence is rarely discussed. Unlike pregnancy, with antenatal classes and endless advice, the emotional shift to motherhood often goes unspoken.

Cultural pressures don’t help. We’re told to “bounce back” physically, emotionally, and even professionally. A 2018 University of Toronto study found 75% of women felt pressure to return to pre-baby life quickly. But the truth is, you don’t go back you evolve into a new version of yourself.

Psychologist Aurélie Athan, who researches matrescence, argues that modern society lacks the rituals and support systems that once helped women navigate this shift. Without them, many mums feel isolated. But instead of seeing it as a problem to fix, what if we embraced it?

The Science of Change

Motherhood isn’t just about routine changes, it literally rewires the brain. University of Edinburgh research found pregnancy and early motherhood trigger structural brain changes, particularly in areas linked to empathy, decision-making, and social awareness.

Add hormonal shifts (oxytocin flooding the system to support bonding) plus sleep deprivation, and it’s no wonder new mums can feel emotional, scattered, or unlike themselves.

But transformation isn’t just about loss. Over time, many mothers gain a deeper sense of self, clearer values, and a new understanding of what matters most.

The Emotional Landscape

Matrescence can bring joy, fear, guilt, and everything in between. NCT research shows 65% of new mothers experience postpartum anxiety, often worrying if they’re “doing it right.”

These emotions don’t mean you’re failing. They’re part of growth - a sign you’re learning about yourself while caring for your baby. Acknowledging them is key to embracing your motherhood journey.

From West Lothian Antenatal Class Friends to Postnatal Support Mummies

How to Embracing This Change

1. Acknowledge it – You’re not meant to be the same person. Change is the point.

2. Find your village – Antenatal groups in Linlithgow, mum-and-baby yoga in Falkirk, baby groups in Bathgate — community matters.

3. Release the guilt – Motherhood is hard. You don’t need to cherish every single second.

4. Prioritise yourself too – Remember the oxygen mask rule: small acts of self-care (a solo walk, a quiet coffee) keep you going.

5. Talk about it – The more we speak openly about matrescence, the more normal it becomes. Whether that’s with friends, professionals, or support groups, you don’t have to navigate it alone.

You Are Not Alone

Motherhood isn’t just about raising a child - it’s about becoming a new version of yourself. This identity shift takes time, support, and self-compassion.

Research from the APA shows mums who embrace this change report 50% higher satisfaction with parenting.

So, whether you’re adjusting to life with a newborn in West Lothian, Edinburgh or anywhere in Scotland: you’re doing an incredible job. Matrescence is messy, magical, and entirely yours to navigate.

👉 Want a safe space to talk about the realities of motherhood, alongside practical birth prep? Join my antenatal classes in Linlithgow, where nothing is off-limits and every parent is supported.

About Joy & How I Can Support You I’m Joy Cassidy - an antenatal teacher, breastfeeding counsellor and perinatal therapist based in Linlithgow, West Lothian. For nearly 20 years I’ve supported families across Central Scotland with evidence-based, non-judgemental guidance around pregnancy, birth and early parenthood.

• Raphael, D. (1973). Tender Gift: Breastfeeding – The book in which anthropologist Dana Raphael first introduced the term "maitrescence".

• Athan, A. & Miller, M. (2017). Maitrescence: Rebirth of the Mother – Research by psychologist Aurélie Athan discussing how motherhood transforms identity.