To Have and to Hold

01What's motherhood all about?

You're a new mom. You've just brought your little bundle of joy home from the hospital, and you're feeling a whirlwind of emotions. You're overjoyed, of course, but you're also anxious, overwhelmed, and maybe even a little bit scared. This is the emotional rollercoaster of motherhood that Molly Millwood so vividly describes in her book "To Have and to Hold: Motherhood, Marriage, and the Modern Dilemma". Motherhood is not just about the physical changes that come with carrying and birthing a child. It's also about the emotional and psychological shifts that occur as you transition from being an individual to being a mother. One moment, you're basking in the glow of your newborn's first smile, and the next, you're sobbing uncontrollably because you're so exhausted and you can't remember the last time you had a moment to yourself. This emotional instability is not uncommon. In fact, it's a normal part of the transition to motherhood. Millwood shares the story of one new mom who described her emotional state as a "rollercoaster ride". One day, she was on top of the world, and the next, she was in the depths of despair. This emotional instability can be disconcerting, but it's a normal part of the journey. But it's not just the emotional changes that can be challenging. The psychological shift in identity can be just as profound. Imagine you've spent your entire life building an identity for yourself. You're a career woman, a wife, a friend, a daughter. And then, suddenly, you're a mother. This new role can feel all-consuming, and it can be difficult to reconcile your new identity as a mother with your previous identity. The physical changes that come with motherhood can also have a significant impact on a woman's self-image and confidence. Your body has gone through a major transformation, and it can be difficult to feel comfortable and confident in your new shape and size. Millwood shares the story of a woman who struggled with her postpartum body image. She felt unattractive and uncomfortable in her own skin, and it took time for her to come to terms with her new body. All of these changes - emotional, psychological, and physical - can have a profound impact on a woman's identity and sense of self. It's a struggle that many women face as they navigate the complex transition to motherhood. But as Millwood points out, it's a transformative journey that can lead to a deeper understanding of oneself and a stronger sense of identity. In her book, Millwood offers expert insight into this complex transition. She understands the emotional, psychological, and physical changes that occur and how these changes can impact a woman's identity and sense of self. Her book serves as a reminder that while the journey to motherhood can be challenging, it's also a transformative experience that shapes and defines us as women. So, what's motherhood all about? It's about joy and anxiety, love and fear, transformation and growth. It's about navigating the complex emotional, psychological, and physical changes that come with becoming a mother. And most importantly, it's about embracing the journey and finding strength in the struggle.