What Is Matrescence? Understanding the Transition to Motherhood
What Is Matrescence? The Word Every Mom Needs to Know
If you’ve ever felt like becoming a mom changed everything—your body, your mind, your relationships, and even your sense of self—you’re not imagining it. There’s actually a name for this transition: matrescence.
Matrescence is the process of becoming a mother. It’s similar to how adolescence describes the transition from childhood to adulthood. Just like puberty comes with physical, emotional, and identity shifts, so does matrescence. Yet, most moms have never heard of this term—and that lack of language can leave you feeling like something must be “wrong” with you when, in reality, you’re experiencing a very normal transformation.
Why Most Moms Haven’t Heard of Matrescence
The word matrescence was first introduced by anthropologist Dana Raphael in the 1970s. But unlike “adolescence,” which we all know and expect, matrescence never became part of mainstream conversations about motherhood.
Instead, society often tells moms to “enjoy every moment” or praises them for “bouncing back.” This leaves so many women silently questioning why they feel anxious, overwhelmed, or disconnected from who they used to be.
Naming matrescence changes the story. It gives you language for what you’re going through—and language is powerful. It allows you to seek support, connect with others who feel the same way, and release the shame of thinking you’re “failing.”
How Matrescence Impacts Mental Health
During matrescence, many moms experience:
Shifts in identity: You may wonder, “Who am I outside of being a mom?”
High-functioning anxiety: From intrusive thoughts to never-ending to-do lists, you may feel like you’re constantly “on.”
Relationship changes: Whether it’s with your partner, family, or friends, dynamics often shift after a baby.
Emotional ups and downs: Joy and grief often coexist in early motherhood.
These experiences are normal, but without support, they can feel overwhelming.
Therapy and Community Support for Matrescence
As a perinatal mental health therapist in New Jersey, I specialize in helping moms navigate the challenges of matrescence. Through therapy, you can:
Understand the changes you’re going through
Learn tools to manage anxiety and overwhelm
Reconnect with your identity outside of motherhood
Build healthier communication in your relationships
But therapy isn’t the only way to find support. Having a community of moms who “get it” is just as important. That’s why I created the Empowered Moms Community—a space for millennial moms with high-functioning anxiety to feel seen, supported, and less alone.
Special Training This Week: Matrescence + Motherhood
This Thursday 10/2/2025, I’m hosting a training inside the Empowered Moms Community all about matrescence—what it really is, how it impacts your mental health, and practical ways to navigate it with more confidence and ease.
👉 If you’ve ever wondered why motherhood feels so heavy or confusing at times, this training will give you the clarity and tools you’ve been searching for.
Next Steps: Your Call to Action
Looking for one-on-one support?
I offer virtual postpartum and perinatal therapy for moms in New Jersey. If you’re struggling with anxiety, identity shifts, or the overwhelm of early motherhood, book an appointment with me here.Craving community?
Join the Empowered Moms Community today and get access to this Thursday’s live training on matrescence, plus ongoing support from moms who truly understand.
Motherhood doesn’t get easier when you do it alone. You deserve support—for both the challenges and the beauty of this season.