What Is Birth Trauma?
Birth trauma can be defined as any emotional or psychological distress a mother experiences before, during, or after childbirth. It is mainly brought out by unmet expectations that occur during the birthing process or from medical negligence. Labor and delivery are already very emotional and nerve-wracking experiences for expecting mothers. Sometimes birth trauma can develop after delivery if a mother is still in shock or experiencing anxiety. Here are some factors that can contribute to birth trauma:- Delivery complications
- Needing emergency actions such as C-sections or use of forceps
- Sustaining birth injury (mother or baby)
- Medical negligence (not receiving proper care)
- A history of anxiety
- Prepare for birth through prenatal classes
- Seek medical and family/friend support
- Try to have realistic expectations for childbirth. It doesn’t always go as planned.
Symptoms Of Birth Trauma
It is important that you know the symptoms of birth trauma so you can easily spot it in yourself or a loved one. There are many signs that could indicate birth trauma since it is handled differently in every individual. Here are some tell-tale signs someone is experiencing birth trauma and should seek help immediately:- Intrusive thoughts when reliving vivid flashbacks
- Trouble sleeping or nightmares
- Feeling on edge or feeling irritable
- Anxiety
- Avoiding thinking of trauma
- Feeling numb or cut off from feelings
- Feeling alone or blaming yourself