Symptoms and Impacts of Birth Trauma
Do you feel like your birth experience left you shaken or struggling? Maybe you’re having nightmares about your delivery, or playing it over and over in your mind. You might be feeling disconnected from your baby, or you just can’t shake the feeling that something’s not right. These could be signs that birth trauma has impacted you. Birth trauma refers to physical or psychological distress experienced during childbirth. It can stem from complications, unexpected interventions, or feeling unsupported or out of control. This trauma may affect both mothers and babies, potentially leading to long-lasting emotional and physical impacts. Recognizing birth trauma is crucial for proper support and healing.
Physical Symptoms of Birth Trauma
Chronic Pain
Persistent physical discomfort is a common aftermath of birth trauma. You might experience ongoing back, pelvis, or abdominal aches that linger long after delivery. This chronic pain can significantly impact your daily life, making routine tasks challenging and affecting your overall well-being.
Sexual Dysfunction
Birth trauma can significantly impact your sex life. You might experience pain during intercourse, decreased libido, or difficulty achieving orgasm. These issues can strain relationships and affect self-esteem. Remember, it’s okay to seek help from a therapist or doctor to address these concerns.
Pelvic Floor Dysfunction
The previous two symptoms - chronic pain and sexual dysfunction, could actually be caused by your pelvic floor. You might experience pelvic floor dysfunction after a traumatic birth (or after any birth). This can lead to issues like incontinence (leaking urine or feces), pain during intercourse, difficulty regaining core strength, and hip and back problems.
Fortunately, with proper treatment and exercises, you can strengthen your pelvic muscles and improve your quality of life. Too often, moms get told to simply do Kegels without a proper physical evaluation. For some types of pelvic floor dysfunction, kegels can actually make it worse, so it’s important to ask your doctor about a referral for pelvic floor physical therapy. Pelvic floor physical therapy is an amazing modality that can help moms gain back function and reduce pain, even years after giving birth. For more information, check out the Mayo Clinic’s website or contact me if you need a good referral!
Bottom line, if you are experiencing any lingering physical symptoms after giving birth, tell your doctor and advocate hard to get a referral to pelvic floor PT. This helped me so much, so I am passionate about telling folks who have given birth about the wonders of pelvic floor pt!
Emotional and Psychological Symptoms of Birth Trauma
It’s common for folks to have psychological and emotional symptoms after a traumatic birth. Here are some of the symptoms that you might experience:
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
You might experience PTSD after a traumatic birth. Symptoms can include flashbacks, nightmares, and severe anxiety. It’s not just “baby blues” – PTSD can significantly impact your daily life and bonding with your baby. Don’t hesitate to seek help if you’re struggling.
Anxiety and Depression
Birth trauma is a risk factor for postpartum depression and anxiety. You might find yourself feeling on edge or overwhelmed after a traumatic birth. Anxiety and depression are common reactions, leaving you with racing thoughts or a deep sadness. These emotions can make bonding with your baby challenging. Remember, reaching out for support is okay – this is temporary and treatable, and you’re not alone.
Difficulty Bonding with Baby
You may find it challenging to connect with your newborn after a traumatic birth. This emotional distance can leave you feeling guilty or inadequate as a parent. Remember, bonding takes time for many new parents. Be patient with yourself and seek support if these feelings persist.
Low Self-Esteem
Birth trauma can significantly impact your self-worth. You might feel like your body failed you, leading to feelings of inadequacy. This can manifest as negative self-talk, difficulty accepting compliments, or avoiding social situations. Remember, these feelings are valid, but they don’t define you. Seeking support can help rebuild your confidence.
Relationship Challenges
Birth trauma can strain your connections with loved ones. You might struggle to bond with your baby or feel distant from your partner. It might be hard to explain to your partner what you went through, especially if you felt abandoned by them at some point during the birth. Open communication and seeking support together in couples counseling can help heal these relationship issues.
The Impact of Birth Trauma
Birth trauma can have far-reaching effects on your life. You might struggle with:
Post-traumatic stress disorder
Anxiety and depression
Challenges in forming a strong attachment with the baby
Low self-esteem
Relationship strain
Pelvic pain, back pain, or other physical discomfort
Painful intercourse or decreased libido
Insomnia or difficulty relaxing due to trauma-related thoughts
Birth trauma can also impact a mom’s daily life, affecting her ability to work, care for her child, and maintain relationships.
Going through a traumatic birth can have a profound and lasting impact on a woman’s physical and emotional well-being. If you could use support, therapy can help. Book a consultation to learn more about pregnancy & postpartum therapy.