Lucy Jones: Matrescence

 Hi everyone

I slowly read and thought about Lucy Jones' book Matrescence on my e-reader and I have some things to share.

"A radical new examination of the transition into motherhood and how it affects the mind, brain and body.
During pregnancy, childbirth, and early motherhood, women undergo a far-reaching physiological, psychological and social metamorphosis. Other than during adolescence, there is no other time in a human's life with such dramatic change, yet science, medicine, and philosophy have neglected this life-altering transition. Its seismic effects go largely unrepresented across literature and the arts. Speaking about motherhood as anything other than a pastel-hued dream remains, for the most part, taboo.
In this ground-breaking, deeply personal investigation, acclaimed journalist and author Lucy Jones brings to light the emerging concept of 'matrescence'. Drawing on new research across various fields—neuroscience and evolutionary biology; psychoanalysis and existential therapy; sociology, economics and ecology—Jones shows how the changes in the maternal mind, brain, and body are far more profound, wild, and enduring than we have been led to believe. She reveals the dangerous consequences of our neglect of the maternal experience, and interrogates the patriarchal and capitalist systems that have created the untenable situation mothers face today.
Here is an urgent examination of the modern institution of motherhood that seeks to unshackle all parents from oppressive social norms. As it deepens our understanding of matrescence, it raises vital questions about motherhood and femininity; interdependence and individual identity; and our relationships with each other and the world."

First of all, I want to tell you that I have a 7-year old daughter and a 3-year old daughter. I have a bachelor's degree in Midwifery and a master's degree in Health Sciences but I retrained in accountancy (in which I now hold a job). It's not that I want to get personal, but you need to know where I come from when I review this. I have been through childbirth twice, I've seen it up close a hundred times, I've met countless pregnant women.

So I learned nothing new in this book. No new facts, scientific research or hypotheses. And I had hoped to get new insights or knowledge. That was a bit disappointing.
However, it is a good personal story of growth, searching for answers, trying things out and listening to others. Jones is too negative in my opinion, I feel like there's more to matrescence than the things she writes. You can find other people you can get help from like neighbours and friends, there are groups you can join, there are possibilities she doesn't mention or see. It's very, very important to mention and adress the pressure, the expectations in matrescence but she doesn't talk about the joys and I think both are part of matrescence.

Happy reading!
Helena