Birth Trauma and Reproductive Trauma

Birth trauma occurs in 1 out of 3 births and that is from the from reported cases. It is widely known that reproductive perinatal experiences are under reported and that birthing people and their partners/loved ones that experience or witness reproductive or perinatal trauma can face a unique set of challenges. Post-Traumatic Stress [Disorder] (PTSD/PTS), is a mental health condition diagnosed by a specialized mental health professional in Ontario (psychiatrist or psychologist) and it is caused by experiencing an extremely stressful or terrifying event. An individual can have experienced reproductive and/or perinatal trauma with or without a diagnosis of PTS/PTSD. It can also happen if a person felt out of control, their birth was complicated or less than ideal, near-miss experiences, there were medical complications, ICU or NICU stays, loss and if the birthing people and their loved ones were left feeling scared because of their experience. This can include the perceived threat or actual threat of loss of life of the birthing person or the baby at any point in a person’s reproductive or perinatal journey. Symptoms can include intrusive memories, avoidance, negative changes in mood and thinking, and alterations in arousal and reactivity.