Matrescence: Becoming a Mother

Dr. Eve Glazier welcomes Dr. Misty Richards, psychiatrist and maternal mental health expert, to explore the concept of matrescence. What is matrescence and why does it matter? In this intimate conversation, Dr. Richards explains why naming the profound transformation to motherhood is essential to creating a safer and more nurturing environment for mothers everywhere.
She answers the questions that many of us are too afraid to ask. Why does motherhood feel like such an abrupt identity shift? Do cultural standards dictate that mothers leave behind parts of their former selves? How do societal expectations impact a mother's state of mind?
Dr. Richards describes the structural and emotional changes that happen to the maternal brain at different intervals and stresses the importance of a strong support system. Through the sharing of both personal stories and scientific revelations, she dispels the belief that motherhood starts with a single frightening leap and instead illustrates that it is a process—one that continually evolves over time. When armed with the right tools and information, matrescence, an often isolating and overwhelming experience, can become a time of healing, growth, and connection.
Podcast Credits for UCLA Health Medically Speaking with Dr. Eve Glazier:
• Host: Dr. Eve Glazier
• Executive Producers: Annie Krasnow, Michael Burke
• Producers: Niki Miller, Jessica Alabastro
• Creative Producer: Kanza Shaheen
• Associate Producer: Jennifer Feld
• Technical Directors: Adrian Cardoso, Andrew Stocks
• Editor: Tony Sweet
• Recorded at: Canella Media
Special thanks to our expert guests and the incredible staff across UCLA Health who make this podcast possible. A special thank you to Johnese Spisso, President of UCLA Health and CEO of the UCLA Hospital System, for her visionary leadership and support. We are also grateful to the patients and families whose stories inspire our work every day.
Produced by: UCLA Health Communications & Marketing
Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.