The Suffering of Traumatic Childbirth
Traumatic Childbirth Experience
A high percentage of births in our country are traumatic for women. This is due to physiological or psychological factors, or to an environment perceived as difficult or hostile. As a result, many women develop Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), characterized by deep anxiety and discomfort in relation to themselves, their baby and their environment. It is very important to address and treat birth trauma in order to improve the quality of life of affected women.
Impact of Traumatic Birth
Sheila Kitzinger, founder of the British support network Birth Crisis, describes the impact of traumatic birth. Women feel powerless and out of control during a crucial event in their lives. Initially they may feel relieved that it is all over, but then experience a mix of gratitude and a sense of being violated.
Postpartum PTSD Symptoms
Scenes of childbirth replay in their minds like a continuous video. They suffer nightmares and flashbacks of the trauma. They are often told that they “expected something else,” which adds to their suffering. These women lose confidence in their bodies and breastfeeding becomes a struggle.
‘High-Tech’ Treatment Cases
The article describes severe cases of women traumatised by “high-tech” treatments such as oxytocin, episiotomy and fetal monitoring. However, some women experience similar symptoms even under favourable circumstances. This may be due to their relationship with their body or unmet expectations.
Feelings of Failure and Accompaniment
The feeling of failure as a mother and woman for not having the birth of her dreams can be devastating. The lack of support from her partner can also have an influence, increasing the feeling of vulnerability.
Quality of Life Affected
Victims of traumatic events suffer greatly and their daily quality of life is severely affected. They are particularly vulnerable to reminders of the traumatic event in their environment.
Conclusion
Traumatic childbirth can leave deep emotional scars. Recognizing and addressing these issues is essential to improving the quality of life of affected women.
