What is Matrescence?
We know that adolescence can be an awkward and painful time – a time where we change on every level – physically, emotionally, mentally, and hormonally – and we are not the same person on the other side.
But what if I told you that the transition into motherhood can be thought of in the same way, and we even have a word for it.
The concept of matrescence gives us a framework to see the transition into motherhood as every bit as awkward, painful, and profound as adolescence, and allows us to reclaim and celebrate this shift in identity.
Matrescence was first used by anthropologist and breastfeeding advocate, Dana Louise Raphael.
“The critical transition period which has been missed is matrescence, the time of mother-becoming…giving birth does not automatically make a mother out of a woman…the amount of time it takes to become a mother needs study.”
— DANA RAPHAEL, ‘MATRESCENCE, BECOMING A MOTHER, A ‘NEW/OLD’ RITE DE PASSAGE’ (1975)
Dana Raphael recognised that birthing a mother may not happen instantaneously when her baby is born. The birth of a mother is a process which takes time to develop and is perpetually evolving. In fact, a mother is reborn many times over – as she has more children, and as her children grow and go through their own stages of development. The mother of a newborn is not the same mother as when her child is a teenager.
We may be our children’s first teachers;
however, our children are our best teachers.
Recently this term has been revived and expanded by Aurelie Athan, clinical psychologist and faculty member at Columbia University, as a ‘developmental passage where a woman transitions through pre-conception, pregnancy and birth, surrogacy or adoption, to the postnatal period and beyond’.
Since the birth of humankind, mothers have organically passed their stories and wisdom on to new mothers. This eases the transition into motherhood, because the new mother feels ‘held’ by the wisdom of those around her, and is encouraged to listen to her own wisdom.
Reclaiming matrescence is about centering the mother!
Giving a new mother space to consider her own transition can seem odd and uncomfortable because we are conditioned to put our own needs to the side. A new mother doesn’t receive the same compassion, understanding, and support on her journey into motherhood as an adolescent does on their journey to adulthood.
Matrescence is something that needs to be acknowledged, appreciated, and nurtured throughout a woman’s entire life as a mother, and then as a grandmother.
We are always learning as a mother, the mother of a newborn and a toddler mothers differently to the mother of an adolescent and adult child and I invite you to reflect carefully, and be kind to yourself, as you grow into each transitional phase in your motherhood journey.
Being a mother is a dynamic experience, an opportunity for growth and happiness. It changes every single part of our being in a purposeful way.
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Led by Alannah, a senior Physiotherapist and Pilates instructor with a special interest in women’s health, our focus is on helping you feel strong, supported, and confident in your body. With years of experience and a passion for functional movement, Alannah combines clinical knowledge with a down-to-earth, personalised approach to care.
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Our Mums and Bubs classes are a welcoming space where you can move, recover, and connect—with your baby right there beside you. These sessions are designed to support your physical recovery while building strength, stability, and confidence in a community of like-minded mums.
At Kaylana Wellness Collective, we listen to your goals and create a care plan that fits your life. We believe movement is powerful—especially when it’s supportive, enjoyable, and tailored just for you.
Let’s help you feel your best, so you can get back to doing what matters most to you.
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Personalised Support Every mother-baby duo is unique, and I tailor my approach to meet your specific needs. Which ever way you choose to feed your baby, breastfeeding, mixed feeding or formula, if this is your first time or have prior experience, I’m here to help you overcome any challenges.
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Emotional Support I understand that a newborn baby can be an emotional journey. Alongside practical assistance, I create a caring and nurturing environment where you can freely discuss your concerns. I’m here to listen and encourage you throughout the process.
Flexible Appointments I offer both in-person visits and online virtual consultations to suit your preferences. I can schedule appointments at times that work best for you, whether you’re at home or on the go.
6-Week Postnatal Care Packages After the birth of your baby and following your hospital discharge, I will visit you at home to provide support and guidance, ensuring a successful confident start to your parenting/breastfeeding journey. Research shows that women who receive support during this time tend to breastfeed for longer. Individualised postnatal packages attract a Medicare rebate if you are within the 6-week postnatal period.
Post-Consultation Care My commitment to your journey doesn’t end with one session. If you choose, I offer ongoing support and follow-ups to help you thrive as you continue your breastfeeding experience.
Don’t let breastfeeding and challenges hold you back. Let me support you in this incredible bonding experience with your little one. Contact me today to book your personalised consultation and discover the keys to successful breastfeeding, and confident parenting
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As a midwife, I offer evidence-based birth classes and private midwife support that go beyond information — I listen deeply, nurture gently, and walk alongside you with compassion. Whether you’re preparing for birth, facing sleepless nights, feeding challenges, or simply the huge shift of identity that comes with motherhood, I’m here to support the whole you. My goal is to help you feel confident, well-informed, and never alone on this journey.
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