Understanding Birth Trauma
Bringing new life into the world is often described as one of the most beautiful and fulfilling experiences a person can have. But is it really? For some individuals, I am sure that it is, but for others the journey of childbirth can be accompanied by trauma, leaving lasting physical and emotional scars. Birth trauma, while not widely discussed (hello mental health stigma), is a significant issue that deserves attention and understanding. So let’s look at birth trauma, and exploring the impact.
What is Birth Trauma?
Birth trauma refers to physical or psychological injuries sustained by a birthing person or baby during the childbirth process. These injuries can occur due to a variety of factors, including prolonged labor, medical interventions such as forceps or vacuum extraction, emergency cesarean sections, or complications during delivery. Additionally, experiences such as feelings of powerlessness, loss of control, or inadequate support during childbirth can also contribute to birth trauma.
Impact on Birthing Individuals and Babies
The effects of birth trauma can be far-reaching and profound. For birthing people, birth trauma may manifest as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, or feelings of guilt and inadequacy. Physical injuries such as perineal tears, pelvic floor dysfunction, or complications from cesarean sections can also contribute to long-term health challenges.
Similarly, babies born after traumatic births may experience difficulties such as feeding problems, sleeping disturbances, or developmental delays. In severe cases, birth trauma can even lead to birth injuries such as brachial plexus injuries or oxygen deprivation, resulting in lifelong disabilities.
Statistics on Birth Trauma
To understand the prevalence and impact of birth trauma, let's turn to the research According to a report titled "Birth Trauma: Understanding the Problem, Identifying Solutions," published in August 2023, the statistics paint a concerning picture:
1 in 3 birthing people report feeling traumatized by their childbirth experience.
Approximately 2-9% experience post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) following childbirth.
Nearly 34% of birthing people report experiencing a traumatic childbirth.
In the United States, an estimated 5-9% of all births result in birth trauma for the baby, ranging from mild to severe injuries.
These statistics underscore the importance of recognizing birth trauma as a significant public health concern that requires attention and action.
The statements we hear the most from birthing people who experience birth trauma?
I had other kids since then, I am fine.
I don’t want to take up space.
My baby and I are fine.
I don’t think about it that much anymore.
As someone who experienced not one, but two traumatic births, I find it important and personal to spread the message. Truly addressing birth trauma would require a full system approach involving healthcare providers, policymakers, and communities at large. We have many local healthcare professionals playing a crucial role in providing trauma-informed care during pregnancy, labor, and postpartum. Love to see it! Some of that includes offering emotional support, informed decision-making, and access to mental health services for families who have experienced trauma.
Raising awareness about birth trauma and reducing the stigma surrounding is the part of the steps my practice and Ashley (www.modernmotherhoodtherapy.com) hope to do here in Ohio. We want all those impacted to feel comfortable taking up space and seeking help and support if and when they need it .
To Learn about Group EMDR For Birth Trauma: Check Here! At Fostering Fortitude, we specialize in providing personalized, evidence-based treatment for the unique challenges faced by high-performers and driven individuals. Whether you're grappling with perfectionism, people-pleasing tendencies, debilitating stress and burnout, or the lingering effects of trauma and PTSD, our practice in Dublin, Ohio is here to help you cultivate greater inner strength and resilience. Utilizing cutting-edge techniques like EMDR therapy, somatic interventions, and other evidence-based approaches, we'll work closely to address the deep-rooted issues underlying your struggles. We are experts merging the latest neuroscientific research on stress, trauma, and relationships with a compassionate, client-centered approach. Schedule a free consultation.
