Between 25% and 34% of women report that their children’s births were traumatic, even though the staff and their support team may not perceive it that way. Birth trauma includes physical injury, danger, or death to mother or baby, or the perception thereof by the mother or partner. It also includes feelings of extreme fear, aloneness, disrespect, lack of control or helplessness.

The good news is that most traumatic birth experiences do not result in the syndrome of PTSD. The feelings (often called Post-Traumatic Stress Effects or Symptoms), associated with traumatic births usually fade in intensity, and become resolved with time, empathic listening, and support from key people in their lives. We may be able to increase the numbers of women who do not develop PTSD if we can identify those who have pre-existing risk factors for PTSD, and recognize when risk factors occur during labour. Appropriate actions, words, and continuous supportive attendance may reduce or reverse the symptoms and prevent PTSD. Seek opportunities for postpartum support and counselling;  Private Counsellor Jane Campbell-Kaye - 3368 1300  or Birthtalk - 3878 7915.

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Because your baby deserves YOU at your best

For thousands of years, women in traditional cultures around the world have practiced postnatal health recovery using the self care techniques.  The period immediately following the birth is crucial for a new mum’s healthy and confident transition into motherhood.  It is surprising to realise that in western cultures, with all our advanced lifestyles and quality of living, we do not acknowledge the recovery time that is needed post childbirth and an honouring of the woman’s transition into motherhood.

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