Understanding birth trauma and physical recovery.

Author(s): J. Smith - Pages: 22–26

Abstract

The aims of this paper are to: (1) raise awareness of birth trauma and its interplay with associated physical injuries; and (2) suggest how healthcare staff can support women during the recovery period. Many women report that some aspect of their birthing experience was traumatic, and has had negative consequences for them in both the short and longer term. When individuals experience physical birth injuries alongside psychological trauma, this can significantly affect several areas of their lives, including: bonding with their baby; relationships with their partner, family and friends; returning to work; and issues of identity. The struggle to receive the specialist support required to identify, diagnose and treat psychological and physical injuries can be arduous and distressing. Healthcare professionals have an integral role to play in contributing to women’s adjustment and recovery by providing accurate information, implementing trauma-informed care and signposting to relevant organizations.

Keywords: birth trauma, education, physical birth injury, psychological injuries, signposting.