Pregnancy is a journey of transformation, not just physically but also emotionally and psychologically. Today, we delve into a profound yet often overlooked aspect of this journey—the feeling of invisibility that many women experience. This sense of being unseen can profoundly impact one’s mental health, especially during such a pivotal time. Let’s explore this issue, its roots, and ways to illuminate and address it.
The Core Beliefs at Play:
In her thesis Dr Claire Zammit highlighted three core beliefs that underpin many of the emotional struggles faced by women: “I am Invisible,” “I am Alone,” and “I am Not Enough.” These core beliefs are deeply routed in a woman’s psyche that they often don’t recognise they are running this belief. It is only when they are no longer coping with the pressure that stress and overwhelmed bring them that they seek to resolve their issue. This blog will focus on obtaining a deeper understanding of the “I am Invisible” belief; how motherhood makes women more susceptible to living in invisibility, how one’s identity beyond roles such as motherhood or a professional title can lead to a women experiencing feelings of being unseen or unrecognized.
The Essence of Invisibility:
This is a highly adaptive strategy to protect oneself in order to be safe and accepted. This person my be very visible but in fact she is hiding behind the things she is doing. All attention is taken away from her and onto something else. How this pattern takes form in pregnancy is because there is the cultural expectation’s that surround motherhood. These expectations are so deeply culturally entrenched that we don’t give it a second thought. However we see it once her child is born when her identity becomes secondary to her mothering roles and responsibilities. So the mother experiences an extreme sense a loss of self and quickly develops a compulsive tendency to neglect her own needs, desires and wellbeing to fulfill her “mothering persona” perfectly.
“In the heart of every mother is a secret place, where her individuality and strength reside. Remember, your light shines brightly, even when you feel invisible.”
The Manifestation of Invisibility:
Sinking into the Background:
For many mothers, their identity becomes secondary to their role as a mother. Their needs, desires, and aspirations get overshadowed by the deeply internalised demands of a “selfless motherhood”. Women are put under a lot of pressure to perform and so, many women have this notion that they must be the “perfect mother.” To do this properly she has to put herself in the back seat. So, an example would be a mother might stop pursuing her hobbies and interests, feeling that her primary identity is to serve her family’s needs.
Lack of Recognition:
In professional settings, pregnant women may feel their contributions are overlooked, or they’re seen more for their pregnancy than their capabilities. Many women have concentrated on burning the candle at both ends to keep up their competitive edge and so, often during pregnancy can fail to see the legitimacy of their position and their work. Again, putting their professional aspirations on hold or even permanently sacrificing them, leads to further diminishing her sense of self.
Emotional Isolation:
There are a number of issues that lead to emotional isolation in pregnancy one of them is FOMO. Everyone wants to give the best of what they can to their child and failing to do so, is incredibly anxiety provoking. Another reason is that because these women haven’t learnt to voice themselves clearly they don’t transmit their needs and wants in ways that support them being listened. They tend to feel often that they are overlooked, discounted or ignored. There is also the fact that after birth her child takes centre stage and she gets pushed into out of the limelight. This senario is further propagated in social settings where conversations might revolve solely around her children and where there little interest shown in her as an individual.
“Let your voice be heard, for in speaking your truth, you pave the way for a journey of visibility, connection, and empowerment during pregnancy and beyond.”
Pathways to Healing:
Healing begins with recognition and validation of one’s feelings and experiences. Owning one’s self gives one a sense of legitimacy and standing which allows a greater sense of reasonable entitlement given one a greater capacity to ask for one’s needs and expect those requests to be met.
Here are some of the steps towards becoming more visible:
Creating Supportive Spaces:
Engaging with supportive communities that understand and validate your experiences can be incredibly empowering. If a person has been “sophisticatedly hiding or invisible” for so long that it is imperative that their voice gets heard. Supportive groups are an ideal opportunity to step forward in another way. However, they must be prepared to work with the feelings that arise – especially in the early days of stepping out. Being present and curious when one experiences shrinking away from sharing their feelings helps build confidence. Learning to voice the small things first builds confidence to do the bigger stuff later on.
Mindful Self-Care:
Prioritizing self-care is not selfish; it’s essential for mental and emotional well-being. Self-care is the surrender into self-love. When you are invisible others don’t even know what it is that you want because you probably won’t have shared in a way that you could be heard. Self-care gives our body a reset so that we have greater capacity for feeling where our own boundaries begin and end.
Empowerment through Expression:
Promote platforms and opportunities for pregnant women to showcase their talents, stories, and dreams, reaffirming their identity. There is plenty of evidence to show that people that receive group support are more likely to follow through on their decisions.
“Remember, your worth is not measured by your visibility to others but by the light you carry within yourself, illuminating the way for your little one.”
Learning to say NO and setting healthy boundaries is crucial in maintaining your sense of self. Remember NO is a complete sentence. You don’t have to justify your NO! This can be one of the hardest things to do because this is new and there are plenty of people that more than happy to take advantage. The key thing to remember is to know what are your reason’s for saying NO as this will give you greater courage and capacity to follow through.
Research Insights:
Studies emphasize the importance of social support and recognition in improving maternal mental health. By fostering environments that recognize and celebrate individuality, we can combat feelings of invisibility. Programs and initiatives that emphasize the value of each woman’s unique journey can significantly impact feelings of visibility and self-worth.
Moving Forward:
Understanding and addressing the feeling of being “invisible” is crucial for the well-being of pregnant women. It’s about recognizing the woman behind the roles, celebrating her identity, and ensuring her emotional and psychological needs are met. Together, we can shine a light on the invisible, making the invisible visible, and support women in feeling seen, heard, and valued throughout their pregnancy and beyond.
“You are not just ‘someone’s mom’—you are a vibrant, dynamic individual whose dreams, thoughts, and feelings enrich the world around you.”
Conclusion:
Embracing Our True Power and Potential:
The blog explores the complex emotional journey of pregnancy, focusing on the often-overlooked issue of feeling “invisible.” It delves into the experiences of pregnant women who grapple with losing their sense of self amid societal expectations and personal transformations. By highlighting the importance of visibility, respect, and empowerment, the blog emphasizes the need for a supportive community that acknowledges and celebrates the individuality of expectant mothers.
We’ve seen how feelings of invisibility can manifest in different forms, from being overshadowed by the role of motherhood to feeling unrecognized in professional environments. The blog offers practical advice on fostering environments that encourage pregnant women to express their individuality, advocating for holistic healthcare that addresses emotional well-being, and empowering women to reclaim their visibility.
As we conclude, remember that visibility and empowerment are crucial for the well-being of pregnant women. It’s a call to action for everyone—partners, families, friends, and healthcare providers—to recognize and support the unique journey of each expectant mother. Let’s work together to create a world where every pregnant woman feels seen, heard, and valued. Share this message, engage in conversations about maternal well-being, and be a part of the movement towards a more supportive and inclusive society for all mothers-to-be.
“Invisibility is but a momentary shadow. Step into the light of your truth and let the world see the radiant soul that is you, beyond all roles.”
If you are ready I would love to support you on your journey. Book yourself in for a FREE introductory chat. In that session we can start exploring what you want and how I can help you you to achieve that outcome. We need to know where are your potential blocks (your biggest gaps) and what is in season to work with right now. Timing is everything and pregnancy is a time when we can do magnificent work together to help you make the biggest difference for you in attaining your outcome.
Question: What does feeling “invisible” during pregnancy mean?
Answer: Feeling invisible during pregnancy refers to the experience of being overlooked or not acknowledged beyond one’s role as a mother or pregnant woman. It can manifest as feeling like one’s individuality, needs, and desires are ignored.
Question:How can I maintain my sense of identity while expecting?
Answer: Maintaining your sense of identity can be nurtured by continuing to engage in activities you love, expressing your feelings and experiences through creative outlets, and setting aside time for self-care and personal growth.
Question:Why is it important to address the feeling of invisibility in pregnancy?
Answer: Addressing this feeling is crucial because it can impact your mental health, leading to feelings of isolation or depression. Recognizing and validating your experiences and emotions contributes to a healthier pregnancy for both you and your baby.
Question:How can I communicate my need for visibility to others?
Answer: Open and honest communication is key. Share your feelings with your partner, family, and friends. Let them know specific ways they can help you feel seen and supported, such as acknowledging your achievements or simply listening to your experiences.
Question:What role can healthcare providers play in addressing this issue?
Answer: Healthcare providers can play a significant role by adopting a holistic approach to care that acknowledges the psychological and emotional aspects of pregnancy. They can offer resources, support groups, or referrals to mental health professionals specializing in prenatal care.
General FAQ
If you have any questions, feedback, or need further assistance, you can easily message me through the contact form on my website. I strive to respond promptly to all inquiries and look forward to connecting with you!
How can I message you?
If you have any questions, feedback, or need further assistance, you can easily message me through the contact form on my website. I strive to respond promptly to all inquiries and look forward to connecting with you!
What services do you offer?
As a Pregnancy and Infertility coach, I specialize in helping professional women to navigate the challenges they experience on their pregnancy journey. I help them reclaim back control by provide them with a safe, non-judgmental space where they can openly express their feelings, fears, frustrations and be empowered to confidently create a safe, nurturing and loving environment for themselves and their unborn child.
My passion lies in empowering women to effect sustainable, positive changes in their lives. To achieve this, I employ a diverse range of transformational tools that help in the release of trauma, PTSD, grief, and loss, particularly those stemming from their primary mother wound. Together, we embark on a journey of growth and healing, inspiring each individual to find solutions that ensure a healthier and more fulfilling pregnancy experience.
Can anyone benefit from your coaching programs?
Absolutely! While my specialization is in tailored to working with professional women who are focused on issues surrounding pregnancy the primary trauma that most women experience is a the collect mother wound. My coaching programs and healing books are designed to benefit any individual, especially women, seeking to overcome trauma, heal deep wounds, and create a positive impact on their lives.
How can I access your trauma healing books?
You can access my trauma healing books, Amazon’s number one best-selling authors, through various platforms, including Amazon Kindle, paperback, and other online bookstores. Additionally, you may find links to these books on my website, making it convenient for you to explore and purchase them.
Using Conscious Pregnancy a Pathway to Sovereignty
A holistic approach is always going to be the best approach in treating anyone whether their goal is to heal or to evolve. Every decision we make is influenced by our emotions. Emotions are the physical or embodied part of our feeling or thoughts. Our brain tries to make sense of our sensations and feelings things by giving them labels. We do this because it is a quick way of accessing information. Therefore we need to have our body and mind working together in harmony. This is what I do. Together we create the right physical and mental environment to focus on the outcome that you want. We will look at things like regulating your diet, sleep, activities, etc. so that you can experience feeling of being more in control and living more joyously.
Are your coaching programs tailored for specific individuals?
Yes, my coaching programs are personalized to cater to the unique needs and goals of each individual. Whether you a want coaching for reasons such as improving relationships, spiritual connection, optimising health or seeking healing from the Mother Wound, I will work closely with you to design a program that aligns with your desires and aspirations and which will result in personal growth.
How can I stay updated on your offerings and events?
To stay informed about my coaching programs, trauma healing books, and upcoming events, you can subscribe to my newsletter on the website. By joining the mailing list, you’ll receive regular updates, exclusive content, and early access to any new releases or offerings.
Note:
Content and imaging co-created with myself and opensource AI technology
“Being seen goes beyond visibility; it’s about recognizing the soul’s journey through motherhood. Your identity is a tapestry of your dreams, hopes, and love.”
