Why there’s more to birth trauma than Birth trauma

Birth trauma is a term that many people associate with the physical and emotional trauma that can occur during childbirth. However, birth trauma can also encompass a much broader range of experiences that can occur during the perinatal period, including fertility, pregnancy, breastfeeding, and postnatal trauma. This expanded understanding of birth trauma is sometimes referred to as perinatal trauma.

Fertility trauma is a relatively new area of study, but it is becoming increasingly recognised as an important part of the perinatal trauma experience. For many couples struggling with infertility, the process of trying to conceive can be emotionally and physically draining. The stress and uncertainty of infertility treatments, as well as the societal pressure to have a child, can take a significant toll on mental health.

Pregnancy trauma can occur for a variety of reasons, including complications during pregnancy, a high risk pregnancy, hyperemesis (extreme pregnancy sickness), difficulties with prenatal care, and the emotional strain of adjusting to a new and often overwhelming experience.

Breastfeeding trauma can occur when mothers face difficulties breastfeeding their babies. This can include pain or discomfort during breastfeeding, difficulties with lactation, lack of feeding support and the emotional distress that can come if breastfeeding comes to an end before parent is ready. . Breastfeeding trauma can lead to feelings of inadequacy, guilt and shame, and can also contribute to postnatal depression.

Postnatal trauma can refer to a range of experiences that can occur after childbirth, including a stay in NICU, a return to hospital, a tear from childbirth, difficulty recovering physically and a baby with colic or reflux.

Perinatal trauma is a complex and multifaceted experience that can have long-lasting effects on mental health. It is important that we start talking about the full scope of perinatal trauma and not limit the conversation to birth trauma alone. If you're struggling with any of these areas of trauma, help is available, talk to your GP, health visitor or midwife or read more here about how three step rewind can help: