Motherhood has a far reaching effect on all aspects of a woman’s life and the personal ramifications of this newly adopted role are not those which can be thoroughly planned for. The transition to motherhood can alter a woman’s identity, her responsibilities and priorities and how she interacts not only with other people but interactions with her lifeworld. Even in more modern times, the stereotypical role of a woman continues to be idealised as a traditional homemaker and carer to her husband and children, further propelling the myth that a good mother is one who stays at home with her young children (Gorman, 2002). This representation of women being natural mothers who are fulfilled with the role of nurturer and selfless carer is in stark
