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Postnatal Support Network

Matrescence and the Postpartum Mind: Identity, Neuroplasticity and “Mommy Brain”

Published 3 days ago • 2 min read

Dear PSN Community,

Behind every new mother is a profound inner transformation — one that reshapes identity, brain, emotions, and sense of self. This transition has a name: matrescence.

At the Postnatal Support Network, we believe that naming this passage changes everything. When mothers, doulas, families, and communities understand matrescence, we move from pathologising normal change to honouring one of the most significant developmental transitions of adult life.

What Is Matrescence?

The term matrescence, coined by anthropologist Dana Raphael, mirrors adolescence. It describes the psychological, emotional, social, and spiritual transformation that occurs when a person becomes a mother.

Matrescence is not simply “adjusting to motherhood.” It is a deep reorganisation of identity in response to a new relational reality: the mother–baby dyad.

Many mothers express it in words like:

  • “I don’t know who I am yet.”
  • “I feel like my old self is dissolving.”
  • “I’m both myself and someone entirely new.”

These experiences are not pathological. They are expected, intelligent, and deeply human.

The Postpartum Brain: Neuroplasticity in Action

Modern neuroscience confirms what mothers have long felt: the postpartum brain undergoes one of the most remarkable reorganisations of adult life.

Grey matter reshapes. Empathy and bonding networks strengthen. The brain’s sense-of-self network remodels, allowing deep attunement to the baby. At the same time, areas associated with linear thinking and multitasking may temporarily downshift.

This neuroplasticity supports bonding and responsiveness — but it can also leave mothers feeling mentally foggy, emotionally porous, or scattered. The cultural shorthand of “mommy brain” often dismisses these experiences, yet they reflect a highly intelligent prioritisation of care.

Forgetfulness and difficulty concentrating are not signs of decline. They are signs of adaptation.

When we reframe these changes, we reduce shame and restore dignity to the postpartum experience.

Why Naming This Matters

When mothers understand matrescence, disorientation becomes normalised. Emotional ambivalence makes sense. Support feels permissible.

Love and grief often coexist. Joy and loss. Empowerment and vulnerability.

These paradoxes are not warning signs — they are the emotional signatures of transformation. Supporting mothers means holding space for both the emerging self and the part that is still letting go.

When to Seek Additional Support

Matrescence includes normal emotional and cognitive shifts. But sometimes additional support is vital.

It may be important to reach out if there is persistent sadness, anxiety, or irritability; difficulty bonding with the baby; intrusive or frightening thoughts; or a growing sense that daily life feels unmanageable.

Seeking help is not weakness. It is protective and proactive.

Support can take many forms — speaking with a doula, midwife, therapist, or doctor; joining a peer group; or receiving practical help at home. Early support can shift the entire trajectory of the postpartum experience and prevent silent struggle.

Understanding that postpartum transformation exists on a spectrum — from normal reorganisation to clinical concern — allows mothers to act without guilt or fear.

Join Our Next Postnatal Doula Training

Starting March 1, 2026

Understanding matrescence is foundational to how we train postpartum professionals. When doulas are educated about identity reorganisation, neuroplasticity, emotional ambivalence, and mental health awareness, they are able to normalise mothers’ experiences, recognise red flags early, and offer grounded, evidence-informed reassurance.

If you feel called to support mothers during this powerful developmental threshold, we warmly invite you to join our next Global Online Postnatal Doula Training, beginning March 1, 2026. Last spots available!

This training integrates science, practical in-home skills, trauma-informed care, and systemic perspectives — preparing you to accompany families with competence and compassion.

Learn more and apply here:
​https://postnatalsupportnetwork.com/doula-support/postnatal-doula-training-starting-march-2026/​

Let us continue building a world where mothers are supported with knowledge, respect, and care for the profound transformation they are living.

With warmth,
​The Postnatal Support Network Team

​

Stichting PSN, Baron G.A. Tindalplein 121,, Amsterdam, 1019TW
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Postnatal Support Network

The Postnatal Support Network (PSN) promotes the importance of a well-prepared and relaxing 40-day postnatal period, connects families and postnatal doulas, trains professionals and builds bridges. PSN is an international organization with a nonmedical and social network, dedicated to raising awareness and educating the larger public on the importance of postnatal rest and care.

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