I think of the word matrescence as an umbrella term as the word itself refers to such a vast range of experiences and realities. Dr Alexandra Sacks wrote an article for the New York Times titled ‘The Birth of A Mother’ and in this article, Dr. Sacks refers to four main areas that are useful to be aware of when exploring the challenges of matrescence. These four areas are the ones you see mentioned above; Changing Family Dynamics; Fantasy Vs Reality; Maternal Ambivalence and Guilt and Shame. I have felt each one of these deeply and yet it did not dawn on me that what I was experiencing was actually part of the transition from the woman I was to the mother I was becoming. Learning the word ‘matrescence’ was like flipping a light on, so much made sense!