Tips For Overcoming A Difficult Birthing Experience

"Women with trauma may feel fear, helplessness or horror about their experience and suffer recurrent, overwhelming memories, flashbacks, thoughts and nightmares about the birth, feel distressed, anxious or panicky… and avoid anything that reminds them of the trauma," says maternal mental health expert, Patrick O'Brien, highlighting the long-term effect that a difficult birthing experience can have. One study published in the journal Psychology, Health & Medicine found that over 30% of mothers who have a traumatic delivery go on to develop PTSD. If you regularly have vivid images of the birth, you feel anxious, or you frequently worry about harm coming to your baby or your family, getting professional help is the first step towards feeling empowered and positive once again.

What Are The Risk Factors For Undergoing Traumatic Childbirth?Sometimes the factors that make birth traumatic are out of a mother's control. This is the case, for instance, if the cause for trauma involved hospital negligence. There are risk factors, however, which can increase the likelihood of traumatic birth. These include having limited support from a partner, having feared for a baby's safety at some point during the labor, having been through previous trauma, and having a tendency to experience anxiety.

Dealing With A Complex Birthing Experience MentallySome mothers choose to process and grow from difficult experiences using natural or alternative therapies, including mindfulness meditation and yoga - both of which have proven to be helpful for stress and PTSD. One study by H Sheydaei et al found that mindfulness training was effective at reducing postpartum depression in mothers. Yoga is also a good choice for new mothers experiencing anxiety and depression after a tough birthing process. Working on self-acceptance, growth as a couple, and recognizing (over time) that birth is just the first step in a relationship with a child can itself help to lessen the effects of a tough birth. Sometimes, however, professional treatment is required.

The Practical Importance Of Getting HelpThe most important reason for obtaining help for traumatic birth, is to preserve your mental health. However, during the months or years following the birth, you may decide to take legal action if any injuries were caused by negligence or improper medical care. There are many examples of birth trauma, including cerebral palsy and Erbs palsy. While not all injuries involve the breach of a standard of care, when they do, you may decide to file a lawsuit. Legal processes are complicated and can be stressful. Therefore, getting the upper hand on any mental issues can be critical when it comes to fighting for your and your child's rights.

Professional Treatment For Women Experiencing Postnatal Depression, PTSD Or AnxietyMothers who find that their symptoms are severe or persistent should obtain a diagnosis and embark upon a treatment plan so as to nip the problem in the bud. Treatment can vary from medication to cognitive behavioral therapy, or even couples therapy. A qualified therapist will help you identify any possible condition and help you build an effect strategy that will help you get back on track.

Having a difficult birth can have consequences - both in the short and long-term. These can range from anxiety to PTSD, and require professional help if they are severe or long-lasting. Having a baby is challenging and rewarding in equal measures for many women, and enjoying good mental health can help you focus on the relationship you are building day to day with your baby in a positive, fruitful way.