What is Birth Trauma?
Birth trauma occurs when a mother or birth partner experiences a highly stressful, frightening, or distressing event related to childbirth. This could be due to unexpected complications, medical interventions, or feeling powerless during the process. Some common causes of birth trauma include:
• Concerns about the baby’s health before birth
• A long, painful, or complicated labour
• Emergency medical interventions, such as assisted deliveries or emergency C-sections
• Severe perineal tearing or other birth-related injuries
• The baby requiring emergency medical treatment, including NICU admission
• Feeling unheard, unsupported, or dismissed by medical staff
While some women recover naturally from a traumatic birth, others continue to experience distressing symptoms. For some, birth trauma can develop into postnatal PTSD, affecting between 4-5% of women in the UK. Even those who do not meet the full criteria for PTSD may still experience ongoing anxiety, fear, or distress that impacts daily life and relationships.
Effects of Birth Trauma
Experiencing birth trauma can leave lasting emotional effects, even if the baby is healthy. Many women and birth partners describe feelings of fear, guilt, or sadness long after the birth. Some common symptoms of birth trauma include:
• Flashbacks, nightmares, or intrusive thoughts about the birth
• Avoiding reminders of the birth, such as hospitals or conversations about childbirth
• Feeling highly anxious, on edge, or easily startled
• Low mood, feelings of guilt, or loss of confidence
• Difficulty bonding with the baby or feeling overly protective
• Strained relationships with partners or family members
Birth partners can also experience trauma after witnessing a difficult birth or fearing for their partner or baby’s life, with studies showing that up to 5% of birth partners develop PTSD symptoms following childbirth.
Recovering from Birth Trauma
If your birth experience continues to affect you, it is important to know that recovery is possible. There are several ways to begin healing from birth trauma, including talking to trusted friends, family, or support groups, and seeking professional therapy to process the trauma in a safe and supportive environment.
The most effective treatments for birth trauma and postnatal PTSD are Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR therapy) and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT). These therapies help process traumatic memories, reduce distressing symptoms, and allow you to move forward with confidence.
Birth Trauma Therapy in Hertford
Dr Maria Tucknott is a Clinical Psychologist and EMDR Europe Accredited Practitioner. She offers in-person birth trauma therapy sessions in Hertford and online therapy across Hertfordshire and the UK. Her approach is compassionate and tailored to each individual's unique experience, helping them regain a sense of control, confidence, and well-being.
For those struggling with the emotional impact of childbirth, professional support is available. Get in touch today to book your initial consultation and take the first step towards recovery.
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