Postpartum post-traumatic stress disorder is a real thing and more common than you think.
How can that be, you may wonder. You didn’t go to war. In fact, you came out alive, healed and with a healthy child.
For some mothers, their experience of having a baby can sometimes be as traumatic as going to war.
Let’s find out more about postpartum PTSD.
Postpartum PTSD is experienced by approximately 6 % of mothers.
Every mother has their own birth story.
Each is unique and influenced by factors such as expectations, pregnancy issues, delivery complications, social support and their interaction with health care members during delivery. Some stories can leave mothers reliving the moment with unpleasant thoughts/ feelings.
Take a moment to think about your personal birth story.
Done? Remember there is no perfect birth story.
Postpartum PTSD Is a mood disorder that occurs after birth due to either a REAL, PERCEIVED or THREATENED birth trauma.
Mother’s may experience:
These symptoms are unsettling and unpleasant, but they are also a normal response to trauma.
Moms with postpartum PTSD may experience all of the above.
Symptoms like flashbacks and nightmares seem more familiar when you think about PTSD.
But you may have other symptoms that should also alert you to PTSD.
Remember:
This is not your fault!
This will not last forever!
This is treatable!
All of the above! The delivery does not have to result in a preterm birth, near death experience, or a baby with a long-term health complications. Studies show that even mothers with uncomplicated full-term babies can experience postpartum PTSD. Experts say that expectations about delivery and how unexpected events transpire can add to the traumatic feelings of childbirth.
Here are a few examples of real, perceived or threatened traumatic birth experiences:
Many studies show that nearly 1 out of 3 of all women experience childbirth as traumatic.
However not all of these moms will have postpartum PTSD.
There are certain factors that increase the risk:
It is totally understandable to feel this way after going through a traumatic experience.
Good news is that postpartum PTSD is treatable and not forever. However, just avoiding triggers and waiting it out is not the way.
If you are experiencing any symptoms of PTSD or unsure, talk to a healthcare professional and get the support you need.
Without treatment you are less likely to receive follow up medical care, bond with your baby and can experience relationship problems.
Good news is that postpartum PTSD is treatable and not forever.
Without treatment you are less likely to receive follow up medical care, bond with your baby and can experience relationship problems .
Treatment options include:
Postpartum PTSD can make a mother feel isolated.
Along with appropriate treatment- it is important to have a support network - spouse, family, friends, postpartum peer group.
Remember, you did an amazing thing bringing your baby into this world!
If your birth story is traumatic… It is okay to have strong feelings about it. But get the support you need to not leave a longstanding impact on you and your family and you will feel better!
If you need more support, please get in touch with your healthcare provider or contact MaternalWell counselors.
