Birth Trauma refers to the emotional and psychological distress or physical injury experienced by the mother during childbirth. Emotional or psychological birth trauma can also be experienced by the woman's partner.
Birth trauma can have long-term consequences for both the mother and her partner. It can lead to :
postpartum depression
anxiety
difficulty bonding with the baby.
It is important to recognise the signs of birth trauma and seek support and treatment, which may include counselling, therapy, and medical treatment as needed.
Some signs that you could be experiencing birth trauma include
having felt fearful during labour or birth
helpless or unheard during labour and/or birth
feelings of shock
guilt or numbness
panic attacks or anxiety
sadness, hopelessness and feelings of unworthiness
If you notice any of these symptoms, you may be experiencing birth trauma and if so, you are certainly not alone. It's been estimated that up to 1 in 3 women who give birth may experience birth trauma but don't get the help they need.
What is Antenatal and Postnatal Depression?
Postnatal depression, is a type of depression that can occur in mothers after giving birth. It is estimated to affect around 10-20% of new mothers and can develop within the first few weeks to months after birth. Symptoms of postnatal depression can include
sadness
hopelessness
lack of energy
difficulty sleeping
changes in appetite
difficulty bonding with the baby.
Antenatal Depression occurs in pregnancy and can effect your thoughts, moods and behaviour. While it is normal to have experience mixed emotions during pregnancy, feelings of sadness, worthlessness and hopelessness can be symptoms of antenatal depression. Other signs and symptoms may include, loss of interest in activities you once enjoyed, changes in sleep and appetite, difficulty concentrating and maybe even thoughts of self harm.
Treatment for antenatal and postnatal depression typically involves a combination of counselling and medication, although the best course of treatment will depend on the individual's symptoms and circumstances. It is important for women who are experiencing symptoms of depression before or after birth seek help from their healthcare provider, as early intervention can improve outcomes for both the mother and the baby.
What is Antenatal Grief and Loss? Antenatal grief and loss refers to the emotional and psychological distress that expecting parents experience when they receive a diagnosis that their baby has a serious health condition, or when they experience a miscarriage or stillbirth. Antenatal grief and loss can occur at any point during pregnancy and can be triggered by a variety of factors, such as antenatal testing, unexpected medical complications, or sudden loss of pregnancy. It can be a complex and deeply emotional experience, with feelings of sadness, guilt, anger, and confusion.
For expecting parents, the experience of antenatal grief and loss can be particularly challenging as they usually have to simultaneously navigate their own emotions and grief, while also considering the needs of other family members. This can be a difficult and isolating experience, as it is not widely discussed in today's society. Treatment options may include support through counselling, support groups and therapy. Coping with the emotional impact of antenatal grief and loss can be devastating and it is important that parents receive the right support in order to begin to heal from the experience.
*** DISCLAIMER : I will be completing my Masters in Counselling NOV 2023 and will then be a Level 9 Registered Counsellor, and thereafter will be able to offer Medicare Rebates.