The Motherhood Project was the brainchild of Bayswater resident Ashayla Webster and stemmed from her book Proud Member of the Itty Bitty Titty Committee.
“It was this book, that dived into the body image issues small-breasted women face, that funded the creation of Fearless Inc, a not-for-profit organisation raising awareness for mental health, body image and gender issues by combating the stigma surrounding them,” she said.
“While creating this book, a few of the women involved were mothers and the changes their bodies and minds went through was dramatic and I wanted to explore this further.”
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READ NOWMs Webster said the book includes the stories of 33 mothers, with contributions from two husbands and one grown daughter.
“Their stories cover everything from before and after, post-natal depression, in vitro fertilisation (IVF), caesareans, weight, other mothers’ reactions, single motherhood and much, much more,” she said.
Ms Webster said the book offered knowledge and with the diversity of women and stories, readers should be able to find someone they could identify with.
“I hope this book offers much-needed answers, a better understanding of the journey women go through and the chance to learn to love oneself,” she said.
“Despite pregnancy, childbirth and motherhood being such a prevalent part of many people’s lives, there’s so much that is not spoken about.
“To have a space to share stories and experiences, no matter how taboo, is important to growth and combating silent struggles.”