Therapy for Perinatal, Birth and Reproductive Trauma
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 and 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. 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, it was a near-miss experience, there were medical complications (sometimes including the ICU and/or NICU stays), they experienced loss or if the birthing person or their loved ones were left feeling scared because of the 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.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
PTS/PTSD 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.
Traumatic events may occur during pregnancy, labour or delivery. Trauma before this period can be re-experienced in pregnancy or as a new mother as well.
Some individuals will have symptoms of PTSD/PTS without a formal diagnosis.
Individuals with PTS/PTSD often have distressing flashbacks or nightmares and high anxiety. They may avoid certain medical procedures, such as vaginal examinations, or they may fear delivery or even avoid caring for the baby if the baby is associated with the trauma.
Other common presentations include low mood, anxiety and panic, specific phobias, anger problems, insomnia or nightmares, interpersonal difficulties, occupational dysfunction and emotional numbness. The person may experience prominent feelings of guilt and shame, and a sense of “moral injury.” (Nazarov et al., 2015)
Indigo Care can help.
Help starts with getting in touch. If you have experience reproductive trauma, perinatal trauma and/or birth trauma and are looking for help, there is support and you are not alone. Indigo Care offers psychotherapy to support you in exploring your experience while finding balance and hope in your life.