PTSD in Pregnancy and Birth
When envisioning the birth of a child, most people imagine family in the waiting room anxiously awaiting the new arrival and a few contractions before the newest bundle of joy enters the world! So simple, so quick, and relatively painless just like something you might see in a tv show or the movies. But what happens when pregnancy and birth are nothing like what we see on the screen? In fact, what does it look like when the pregnancy and birthing experience is traumatic?
Pregnancy and Birth Trauma
Pregnancy and birth related PTSD is a form of post-traumatic stress disorder that can occur after a traumatic pregnancy or childbirth experience. Trauma is defined by a distressing experience that can have negative effects on the person’s emotional, mental, and physical health. Although childbirth can be a joyous occasion, it can also be unpredictable and potentially traumatic. Childbirth involves significant life transitions, including new family dynamics, medical procedures, and lifestyle changes. If complications arise during pregnancy or childbirth, they can result in emotional, mental, and physical distress or PTSD.
Symptoms of PTSD
Pregnancy and birth related PTSD can manifest in various ways, and symptoms may differ from person to person. Here are some common symptoms:
Intrusive memories: Flashbacks, nightmares, or unwanted thoughts about the traumatic event during pregnancy or childbirth.
Avoidance: Trying to avoid anything that reminds you of the trauma, including places, people, conversations, or even thoughts and feelings.
Negative changes in thinking and mood: Feelings of detachment, estrangement from others, persistent negative emotions, and an inability to experience positive feelings.
Changes in physical and emotional reactions: Increased irritability, anger outbursts, difficulty sleeping, hypervigilance, and exaggerated startle response.
Re-experiencing the trauma: Reliving the traumatic event through flashbacks or distressing dreams, which can feel very real and intense.
Hyperarousal: Feeling constantly on edge, anxious, and having difficulty concentrating.
Emotional numbing: Feeling detached from emotions, including feeling disconnected from the baby.
It's important to remember that experiencing some level of emotional distress after childbirth is common. However, if these symptoms are severe, persistent, and significantly interfere with daily life, seeking professional help is essential.
Coping with Pregnancy and Birth related PTSD
Coping with symptoms related to pregnancy and birth PTSD can be challenging, but there are several strategies that may help. Here are a few suggestions:
Acknowledge and validate: Recognize that these memories are a symptom of PTSD and are not your fault. Validating your feelings can be the first step to healing.
Grounding techniques: When intrusive memories arise, use grounding techniques to bring yourself back to the present moment. Examples include focusing on your senses (what you see, hear, smell, taste, and touch) or practicing deep breathing exercises.
Mindfulness: Practicing mindfulness can help you observe your thoughts and feelings without judgment. This can create space between you and the intrusive memories, making them feel less overwhelming.
Cognitive restructuring: This technique involves challenging and changing negative thought patterns associated with the traumatic memories. By reframing these thoughts, you can reduce their intensity and impact.
Seek professional support: A therapist specializing in PTSD or trauma can provide guidance and support in developing coping strategies. They can also help you process the traumatic event in a safe and controlled environment.
Self-care: Prioritize self-care activities such as exercise, healthy eating, and getting enough sleep. These practices can help improve your overall well-being and resilience.
Support groups: Connecting with other individuals who have experienced similar trauma can be validating and provide a sense of community. Support groups offer a safe space to share experiences and learn from others.
Pregnancy and childbirth can be a joyous, but also traumatic experience that can impact your emotional, mental, and physical health. If you're experiencing PTSD related to pregnancy or birth, please reach out and schedule an appointment today with one of our EFT therapists. New life transitions can be hard, but you do not have to walk through the pain alone.
