Birth Trauma Awareness Week is here (July 16-22). As something that affects up to 1 in 3 women, knowing what it is, how to spot it, and how to prevent it is essential.
What is Birth Trauma?
Birth trauma or birth-related trauma refers to any physical or emotional distress experienced during or after childbirth.
Some of the more common types of physical birth trauma include severe perineal tears, emergency C-sections, instrumental deliveries (like with forceps or a vacuum), postpartum bleeding, and unexpected complications that put you or your baby at risk.
Sometimes, physical trauma isn’t obvious right away. Issues like bladder damage, pelvic floor muscle damage, prolapse or incontinence can show up later. So, if something doesn’t feel right, speak up and seek help.
But birth trauma isn’t just physical; it’s also about how the mother experiences the birth — this is known as psychological birth-related trauma. Two women can have similar birth experiences, but their feelings and responses can be totally different—and that’s okay. If it felt traumatic to you, it was.
How Do You Know If You Have Birth Trauma
Recognising birth trauma can be tricky, especially when you’re deep in the haze of new motherhood and figuring out how to do life with a little one by your side.
Keep an eye out for these signs and seek help from a trained professional to support you through it:
- Physical symptoms, e.g. persistent pain, incontinence, pelvic floor issues, or difficulty healing from birth injuries.
- Emotional symptoms, e.g., feelings of fear, sadness, anger, or detachment, are related to the birth experience. Flashbacks, nightmares, and heightened anxiety are also common.
- Behavioural changes, e.g. avoiding situations or conversations about childbirth, difficulty bonding with your baby, or changes in sleep and eating patterns.
How To Prevent Birth Trauma
Preventing birth trauma is all about preparation, education, and support. You want to feel informed about your options and understand the birthing process so you can advocate for yourself during labour and delivery.
While nothing birth related can be 100% planned, gathering knowledge, practising relaxation techniques, and having a supportive healthcare team by your side can make a big difference to your birthing experience.
Support From The Wellness Boutique
At The Wellness Boutique, we understand how crucial it is to feel prepared and supported during pregnancy and postpartum.
We’re all about helping you make educated and empowered decisions during labour and take charge of your birthing experience.
That’s why we created our Bump & Beyond program, a series of appointments offering personalised guidance and evidence-based knowledge to help you prepare for birth, reduce trauma risk, and recover smoothly.
Not only will you get essential pelvic floor and physical support, but you’ll also gain confidence to make informed choices for your ongoing well-being.
Birth trauma can be a complex and deeply personal experience, and while we can’t prevent all trauma, being prepared and supported can change your entire birthing experience.
By the end of your Bump & Beyond journey, you’ll have a new appreciation for what your body can do and feel proud of how you’ve honoured yourself and your baby — no matter your birth circumstances.
More Places For Birth Trauma Support
Birth Trauma Awareness Week is a reminder that you’re not alone. If you or a friend are experiencing signs of birth trauma, there’s help available:
- Talk to your GP, Midwife, Obstetrician, or Child Health Nurse.
- Reach out to The Australasian Birth Trauma Association (ABTA) for peer support.
- Check out COPE, The Gidget Foundation and PANDA for free perinatal mental health resources and counselling.
Call 000, Lifeline 13 11 14, or go to your local hospital emergency department for immediate crisis support.
Remember, birth is no walk in the park, even when it goes well. But with the right preparation, support, and knowledge, you’ll be empowered to face potential childbirth challenges with strength.
We’d love to guide you through this transformative time and ensure you feel prepared, supported, and confident. Explore our Bump & Beyond program or get in touch to learn more.
Find more information on Birth Trauma Awareness Week plus resources to support you at birth trauma.org.au. #BTAW24 #saferbirthsbetterhealing.
*source: Australian and international research suggests that up to 1 in 3 women identify their birth experience as traumatic (Heyne et al, 2022; Watson et al., 2021).
Ready to strengthen your birth support squad? Contact our friendly team or check out Bump & Beyond today.
