Ep 81: Matrescence Matters & The Impact Of Pregnancy And Motherhood On The Brain

In this episode, we celebrate Mother’s Day with a conversation about Matrescence, a woman’s journey through pregnancy, birth, postnatal, and beyond. An increase in hormones, changes in self-perception, adjustments in social context, and increased risks of mental health problems such as anxiety and depression are all examples of what a woman may experience during this time.

Guest Dr Sarah McKay joins host Meg Durham for this deeply insightful episode, sharing her knowledge on the impact of pregnancy and motherhood on the brain, and how caregiving shapes the brains of all parent figures, biological or other. Tune in to this episode to learn why Matrescence is a pivotal journey and how it can positively impact women’s lives.

In this conversation we discuss

▫️ What is Matrescence?

▫️ The impact of pregnancy and motherhood on the brain.

▫️ How we can better support working mothers.

▫️ And so much more…

You can quote us on that…

“The greatest preditor of childhood wellbeing is parental wellbeing”

Dr Sarah McKay

“The biggest structural change that you see in women’s brains takes place during pregnancy.”

Dr Sarah McKay

“Pregnancy is sculpting a woman’s brains in preparation for the act of motherhood, for nurturing, for attachment with that baby and for figuring out what it thinks and needs.”

Dr Sarah McKay

Connect

Dr Sarah McKay- Website | Instagram | LinkedIn | Books

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Hi, I'm Meg!

B.Phys Ed, M. Ed (Student Wellbeing), CIPP

I’m a teacher with experience working in primary and secondary schools across Australia, and a specialist in the field of wellbeing education and coaching. I founded Open Mind Education in 2013 with a vision of sharing practical, enriching wellbeing education with staff, parents, and broader school communities.

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