Matrescence: The Transition from Womanhood to Motherhood with Mary Yetter

Matrescence: The Transition from Womanhood to Motherhood with Mary Yetter

In this conversation, Dr. Andrea Newland, PT, DPT, pelvic floor physical therapist and Mary Yetter, Matrescence educator and coach, explore what truly happens when someone becomes a mother — physically, emotionally, relationally, and psychologically. Together, they unpack the term and experience of, "matrescence," or the process of becoming a mother. Though the term was coined 50 years ago, very few know that there is a word that embodies this transformative period in one's life. Often overlooked is the profound identity transformation that occurs during motherhood. From physical recovery, nervous system regulation, and birth trauma to rage, resentment, loss of self, and shifting relationships, this episode bridges the gap and provides language and support for something that all mothers experience, but often struggle to describe. Mary Yetter is the founder of My Matrescence, where she supports mothers navigating the identity shifts of motherhood through coaching, education, and community-centered conversations around matrescence. Website: Www.mymatrescence.com Instagram: www.instagram.com/m.y.matrescence

Before & After Birth: A Patient’s Journey Through Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy

In this candid and compassionate episode, Dr. Andrea Newland, PT, DPT interviews Pam, a former patient, to explore the full arc of her journey through pregnancy, birth, and postpartum recovery. What begins as a conversation about prenatal pelvic floor physical therapy unfolds into a deeply personal story of resilience, vulnerability, and healing. The patient shares how she first sought support during pregnancy to manage persistent sacroiliac (SI) joint pain and urinary incontinence—common but often under-discussed challenges. Together, she and her pelvic floor physical therapist navigated tailored treatment strategies that not only eased her discomfort but also helped her feel more connected to her changing body in preparation for birth. The conversation then shifts to her birth experience, offering an honest reflection on expectations versus reality, and how physical and emotional factors intertwined during labor and delivery. With openness and nuance, she recounts the moments that shaped her transition into motherhood. In the postpartum chapter, the episode dives into the realities many new mothers face but few openly discuss: pelvic instability, lingering pain, upper back tension from feeding and holding her baby, and the emotional weight of recovery. Through continued pelvic floor therapy, she found both physical rehabilitation and a space for validation and support during a time of profound change. This episode sheds light on the often overlooked role of pelvic floor physical therapy across the perinatal journey. It’s a story that will resonate with anyone navigating pregnancy, recovering from childbirth, or supporting someone who is—offering insight, reassurance, and a reminder that healing is not linear, but it is possible.

The Pelvic Floor PT Meets the Certified Lactation Consultant

In this episode, Dr. Andrea Newland, PT, DPT, spends time with Cat McMullen, an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC), and owner of The Good Latch Cat. Together, they discuss Cat's work in helping expecting and new mothers in the lactation world, as well as her work with those experiencing pregnancy loss. This episode covers all things lactation - From prenatal services and education, to conditions and issues that Cat treats from infancy and throughout your breastfeeding journey. Many expecting parents do not know that lactation services are available to help them through this chapter of their lives - Take a listen to hear about how an IBCLC can help you! Trigger Warning: Pregnancy loss & miscarriage.

Beyond the Six-Week Check: Postpartum Recovery and Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy

Postpartum is one of the most stressful times, both physically and mental —and as with pregnancy, the core and pelvic floor is right at the center of it all. In this episode, Dr. Andrea Newland, PT, DPT discusses pelvic floor physical therapy and its important role in postpartum recovery. She discusses common (but NOT “normal”) symptoms, why pelvic floor physical therapy is so beneficial for helping to alleviate any musculoskeletal aches and pains associated with pregnancy, delivery, and breastfeeding, as well as pelvic floor dysfunction - including symptoms like incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse, pain with intercourse, diastasis recti, and more. Whether you’re newly postpartum, planning ahead, or had your babies 20 years ago, this episode offers clinical expertise, explanation of symptoms, knowledge of the body and empowerment to help you take the first steps towards feeling like you again!

Pregnancy & Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy: What to Expect from PFPT When You're Expecting

Pregnancy brings incredible changes to the body—and the pelvic floor is right at the center of it all. In this episode, Dr. Andrea Newland, PT, DPT talks about all things pregnancy and pelvic floor physical therapy, and why it is such a powerful support during pregnancy. She discusses common (but NOT “normal”) symptoms, how pelvic floor PT helps with comfort, strength, and confidence, and what to expect from therapy from your first trimester, all the way up to your birth. Whether you’re newly pregnant, planning ahead, or just curious about caring for your body through pregnancy and beyond, this episode offers practical insight, reassurance, and expert guidance to help you feel supported from the bump down.