Navigating Role Confusion: The Identity Struggles of Postpartum Mothers
The journey into motherhood is often portrayed as a beautiful and fulfilling experience, but for many mothers, it can also be a time of profound confusion and identity loss. Recently, the Mum Love team presented a significant report at Downing Street outlining the identity struggles faced by postpartum mothers, highlighting the urgent need for comprehensive support in this area.
Understanding Matrescence
Matrescence refers to the physical, psychological, and emotional changes that women undergo during the transition into motherhood. Similar to adolescence, matrescence is a developmental phase that can lead to feelings of confusion and identity loss. This process is marked by a significant shift in self-perception, as mothers navigate new roles and responsibilities while often feeling disconnected from their pre-baby selves. Understanding matrescence is crucial for recognising the complexities of maternal identity and the challenges that accompany motherhood.
Understanding the Current Landscape
A 2026 YouGov survey conducted by Mum Love revealed several critical insights into the experiences of postpartum mothers:
74% of mothers experience role confusion after giving birth.
55% report some form of identity loss.
1 in 7 mothers noted that feelings of identity confusion began during pregnancy.
These statistics highlight a significant issue that many mothers grapple with: the overwhelming pressure to balance their new roles as caregivers with their previous identities as individuals, professionals, and partners.
Key Findings on Mental Health
Research indicates that the mental health challenges faced by postpartum mothers are substantial. A 2023 study found that 62% of new mothers feel they have lost part of their identity after childbirth. Additionally, 53% of mothers experience symptoms of anxiety or depression during the postpartum period, as reported by findings from UCL.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) emphasises that maternal mental health is crucial not only for mothers but also for their children. Poor mental health can lead to impaired bonding, developmental issues in children, and an increased risk of mental health disorders in both mothers and their children.
These findings underline the importance of recognising and addressing the emotional struggles faced by mothers, as these challenges can have far-reaching effects on family dynamics and community well-being.
Overarching Messages from Mothers
While the statistics paint a clear picture of the challenges postpartum mothers face, the overarching messages resonate deeply:
Feeling Overwhelmed is Normal: Many mothers report feeling overwhelmed by the dual expectations of work and family life. This sentiment is echoed across various narratives and highlights the need for understanding and compassion from both society and support systems.
Isolation is a Common Experience: Despite the connectedness of modern life, many mothers feel isolated in their struggles. The importance of community connections cannot be overstated; peer support can make a significant difference in helping mothers feel understood and less alone.
Identity Loss is Real: The transition into motherhood often leads to a shift in identity. Many mothers describe a feeling of disconnect from their pre-baby selves, which can lead to guilt and confusion. It is essential for mothers to acknowledge that these feelings are valid and shared by many.
Support is Crucial: A staggering 78% of mothers reported feeling a lack of adequate support during the postpartum period. This highlights the urgent need for more comprehensive community resources and mental health support for mothers during this critical time.
Moving Forward: The Need for Change
The findings from the Mum Love report presented at Downing Street call for a collective effort to support postpartum mothers. This includes increasing public awareness of postpartum mental health issues, promoting flexible workplace policies, and fostering community engagement to create supportive environments.
By acknowledging and addressing the emotional struggles that many mothers face, we can begin to change the narrative around motherhood. It’s essential to create spaces where mothers can share their experiences, seek help, and find community without stigma or judgement.
The journey into motherhood is complex, and it is time we recognise the myriad of emotions that come with it. Together, we can foster a culture that supports mothers, validates their experiences, and prioritises their mental health and well-being.
How is Mum Love supporting mums?
Mum Love is a new UK foundation that aims to ensure that women navigating this transition do not feel alone. Through advocacy, community and practical support, Mum Love aims to support mums through matrescence by:
Sharing lived maternal experiences alongside expert insight
Providing practical, therapist-approved resources to help mothers rebuild confidence and reconnect with their sense of self
Digital tools including a therapist-informed chat assistant, offers supportive, reflective responses designed to help mums feel heard, put words to what they’re experiencing, and gently explore their feelings in a safe way
Signposting mums to appropriate help and guidance
Advocating for greater cultural and policy recognition of maternal role transition
You are not alone. We are Mum Love.