The transition into motherhood is a time of profound change and transformation on every level: emotionally, mentally, physically and spiritually says Vanessa Long
The postpartum period is also a time of conflicting emotions: both positive and negative are fluctuating in a heady mix of hormones and sleep-deprivation - absolute joy, bliss, wonderment, exhaustion, irritation, sadness and maybe grief.
A new mother is born
But with the birth of every child, whether it be her first or her fifth, a new mother is born. She is as open, raw and vulnerable as her newborn baby. Just as her baby needs warmth, nurturing and the correct rehydration and nourishment, so too does the mother. Just as her baby needs to feel protected, cared for and held, so does she. A new mother is a precious cargo, in need of love, support, understanding, kindness and gentleness.
The modern care of the mothering journey in the West is primarily focussed on the mother; her pregnancy and birth. However, once baby is here, mothers are relegated to second place. Health professionals focus on baby’s development and families, who often live far away, visit expecting cups of tea and cuddles with the new baby and buy expensive presents but the mother is given little of the nurturing and care she truly needs.
