Overcoming a traumatic birth. It is possible 

All opinions are mine and mine alone.

Overcoming a traumatic birth. It is possible 

From the moment we see that our pregnancy test is positive, our minds begin racing. We’re thinking how easy our pregnancy will be, thinking about the baby’s gender, baby names and of course, what labour will be like! As your midwife probably advised you, it’s always a good idea to create a detailed birthing plan so you can hopefully have the experience that you want and be in control of the process. But I’m sure your midwife also told you, that babies don’t always follow the birthing plans that their parents lay out for them and tend to do their own thing!  

Despite this, no one ever expects or anticipates that something will go wrong. You might need help, or you and your baby could be in danger. An assisted birth, followed by a birthing injury – you can discover legal advice about birthing injuries including paraplegic injuries by clicking the link – is devastating, as is a severe tear or haemorrhage. Perhaps the pain itself has traumatised you, or maybe you felt utterly powerless during the event. Whatever the origins of your feelings, there are steps you can take that can help you to overcome them and come to terms with what happened.  

Talk to your partner 

Letting your partner know how you feel could potentially relieve a lot of stress and anxiety. You can talk through the event and how it made you feel, or just let them know that you’re struggling. You may find that your partner is struggling too and is just as traumatised by what happened as you are. If this is the case, then you may find supporting each other helps you both significantly.  

Talk to your healthcare team 

Your community midwife and health visitor will come to visit you at home a couple of weeks after the birth, take this opportunity to speak to your health visitor/midwife about what you went through and how it has affected you. They will be able to put you in touch with support groups, helplines and also provide information that will help you overcome your traumatic experience. If you cannot wait, then make an appointment to see your GP as soon as possible. Don’t wait. Your mental health is just as important as your new baby.  

If you’re having another baby 

If you’re having another baby, then it is perfectly normal to start worrying that history will repeat itself. Perhaps you’ve managed to set aside your traumatic experience, but now you’re pregnant again it’s brought it all back to the surface. Communication is key here. Speak to your midwife about your previous experiences and your worries, she’ll be able to make you feel better and pass on this information to the midwifery team who will help deliver your baby at the time.  

Work together with your partner to create a detailed birthing plan, make sure they understand it too! Visit the hospital, meet the midwives and do plenty of research so you’re prepared both mentally and physically. If you’re not happy with the support you’re receiving, or your midwife then speak out and get in touch with the Head of Midwifery at your local maternity unit.