What is Birth Trauma?
There is no clear definition of what creates a traumatic birth. Even if there was, such a definition would not include experiences such as fertility challenges, miscarriage, loss, traumatic pregnancies and breastfeeding grief.
Sadly, birth trauma is quite common. Around 6% of new mums are diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder following a traumatic birth, while it is estimated a further 20-25% will go undiagnosed.
These figures also do not include the many partners, midwives, doulas and other birth workers who may also experience birth or perinatal trauma.
Trauma from birth related experiences can have far reaching effects and can be incredibly devastating.
What causes Birth Trauma?
It is common to assume that only the most life threatening or emergency situations result in birth trauma. This is not always the case.
In reality, factors such as feelings of loss of control, loss of dignity, lack of consent and not feeling heard are common causes of trauma, even in so-called “perfect” or “textbook” births.
What is clear is that it is your own perception of your birth events and how you feel about it that determines whether or not it is traumatic.
What are the symptoms of Birth Trauma?
In Ireland, new mothers are routinely screened for postnatal depression at their 6 week check post-birth. While this is an incredibly important tool, it is important to note that symptoms of postnatal depression often overlap with trauma symptoms. And yet trauma is not routinely screened for after birth.
In Ireland we have cultivated a culture of glossing over difficult birth experiences. We might hear "all that matters is a healthy baby" and "didn't we all go through it" - we may even say it ourselves!
This minimises your experience and stops you from expressing your distress, fear and hurt. Women are essentially being told that they are not entitled to their experiences of birth and are expected to suppress their emotions, move on and forget it.
If you are experiencing some or all of the symptoms listed here, please consider booking a FREE CALL to see if Birth Trauma Resolution Therapy could help.
What is Birth Trauma Resolution Therapy?
Birth Trauma Resolution (BTR) Therapy was developed by Jenny Mullan, who has been working with mothers for over 20 years. I trained with Jenny in Spring 2022, and undertake regular supervision as part of my qualification.
Sessions take place in your home (provided you can arrange 2 hours privacy) or at my therapy space at The Healer’s Dance in Blessington, Co. Wicklow.
In our first session, I use some screening tools to determine which treatments might work best for you. We also do a debrief, where you are free to share as much or as little of your experience as you are comfortable with.
Further sessions consist of breathing techniques, guided meditations and the “Rewind Technique”, which is used to take the painful sting out of traumatic memories. Other treatments may be included to help you prepare for a future birth, or to create a future where you feel calm and in control.
On average my clients see positive, life changing results within 3-4 sessions.
(1.5-2 hours - €75 per session)
“When I think of my birth experience for both my girls, I no longer have an overwhelming feeling of fear and devastation. I know that I have healed some part of my heart on the journey.”
— Michelle
Contact Me!
Wondering if Birth Trauma Resolution Therapy is right for you?
Or maybe you need more information before taking the next step?
Contact me to schedule a free 15 minute phone call!
Or take a look through my Frequently Asked Questions.