MOTHERHOOD

The Anatomy and Physiology of Motherhood

Motherhood, and the greater sphere of our reproductive health are realised through an intricate orchestration between our nervous, immune, reproductive and hormonal systems of the body. In this they are not alone, through a relationship of reciprocity they implicate all tissues, cells and systems, to instigate and maintain mensuration, conception, pregnancy, birth and beyond.

The following is an exploration of the systems and their roles. Possessing an understanding of these can help to attune to our needs and assimilate change.

Our nervous system is our bodies electrical communication network, in amongst a diversity of roles, helps to regulate the release of hormones that support reproductive cycles, pregnancy and birth.

Hormones, our bodies chemical massagers, are released throughout the brain and the body by special organs such as the ovaries and have a rich and wide spreading sphere of influence, regulating monthly mensturation, supporting and preparing a mothers body for pregnancy, birth and instigate and sustain the adaptations of motherhood. Hormones are also implicated in the emotional and behavioural changes associated with phases of reproduction and motherhood.

Our reproductive system is a collection of organs and includes a network of hormones that synchronise together to create life. In females it comprises organs such as the uterus, ovaries, and tissues such as the vulva and vagina.

The immune system is vast, encompassing the lungs, the gut, the skin and is contained within many other structures in the body. Its role in pregnancy and birth is to facilitate the unopposed healthy growth of the fetus and coordinate its safe arrival in birth. Afterbirth it is engaged in healing the pelvic tissues and supports breastfeeding and the continued cycles of change within her environment that a mother is exposed to.

Our bodies are nuanced, non linear and the actualisation of motherhood in the cycles of reproduction serve to remind us that no part of us works in isolation. We are interconnected, and whole.

12/01/2024

HELEN COUTTS