Recently there has been a push to understand and support parents’ experiences during birth and postpartum. Celebrities are sharing their stories to spread awareness that giving birth is not always butterflies and sunshine. The number of research studies surrounding birth experiences has also increased in the last ten years. In 2021 research showed 4-6% of birthing people are diagnosed with post traumatic stress disorder following childbirth (PTSD-FC) (Ertan, 2021). A whopping 45% of birthing people and 13% of partners experience traumatic births (Skari, 2003). 

So what is birth trauma anyway and what can I do about it?

Often people associate birth trauma with a physical injury for a baby or birthing parent. However, birth trauma also extends into the parent’s mental health. 

Over the last eight years, I have noticed a few themes that can lead to challenging or traumatic birth experiences. Birth trauma often results from unmet expectations, perception of experiences and lack of support. The number one reason for traumatic births is, lack of support.

Full.Stop.

Two people, with similar experiences, can respond differently, based on the level of respect and support they received. Feeling supported, empowered and heard can reduce the amount of trauma experienced. 

Know Yourself

During the perinatal period, our bodies are going through all kinds of changes that can feel like they are out of our control. Is it miraculous what our bodies can do? Absolutely. Pregnancy can feel suffocating, exhausting and intrusive which can trigger past events when we could not control what happened with our bodies. Previous traumatic experiences can increase the likelihood of experiencing birth trauma including previous traumatic births, sexual assault, medical procedures and fertility complications (in-fertility, miscarriages, stillbirth). 

Okay, so now what?!

Some ideas for pregnant folx:

• Reach out early for support. Before or between pregnancies. As soon the feelings come. 

• Listen to yourself. If you feel uncomfortable with your provider, (and you have the capacity or accessibility) please find a healthcare provider you trust.

• Discuss any concerns you have with your care provider and the person who will support you during birth.

• Seek Outside Support. Online or in-person support groups or perinatal counseling can provide spaces for you to process your experiences and prepare for the future.

• Process your traumatic experiences. Write, draw, talk about it! Processing comes in numerous forms. 

I am going to say it again. You don’t have to cope with, process, or heal your wounds alone.

Ertan, D. (2021). Post-traumatic stress disorder following childbirth. BMC Psychiatry 21, 155. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12888-021-03158-6

Skari, H. (2003). Comparative levels of psychological distress, stress symptoms, depression and anxiety after childbirth—A prospective population-based study of mothers and fathers. BJOG, 109(10), 1154-1163. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1471-0528.2002.00468.x