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In a recent episode of the Healthful Woman podcast Dr. Nathan Fox meets with one of his former residents, Dr. Katherine Jorda where they discuss perinatal trauma and how it can impact women during pregnancy and childbirth. This episode highlights the causes and effects of trauma during birth, emphasizing the need for trauma-informed care to better support women who have gone through challenging deliveries.

About Perinatal Trauma

Perinatal trauma refers to emotional or psychological distress experienced during or after childbirth. Trauma can stem from various birthing situations, such as emergency C-sections, difficult vaginal deliveries, or medical complications like postpartum hemorrhage. Often, it is not just the event but the emotional experience that causes distress, like feeling unsupported or uninformed during the process.

The Importance of a Trauma-Informed Approach

To address perinatal trauma, many healthcare settings are adopting a more trauma-informed approach, combining medical and emotional support. This approach ensures that patients receive care that addresses both their physical and psychological well-being. Some clinics now offer specialized services where patients are cared for by both medical professionals and mental health specialists, helping women process their birth experiences on all levels.

Factors in Reducing Trauma

One of the best ways to reduce the likelihood of perinatal trauma is through education and clear communication. Dr. Jorda states, “One thing I’ve learned from taking care of patients with a traumatic delivery is everyone has a different communication style.” Many women are not fully aware of potential obstetric emergencies, like emergency C-sections or the use of forceps or vacuums, which can create fear if they happen unexpectedly. By preparing patients ahead of time, healthcare providers can help women feel more in control and less anxious if these situations arise. Carnegie Imaging for Women offers ultrasound appointments to help you feel more at ease during pregnancy.

The Role of Clear Communication in Trauma Reduction

Effective communication during labor and delivery is crucial. Many women report feeling traumatized not just by what happened during their delivery but by how little they understood or how disconnected they felt from their healthcare team. Making sure that patients are kept informed and reassured throughout the process can significantly reduce the emotional toll of childbirth.

A Holistic Approach to Supporting Women

A trauma-informed approach recognizes that childbirth is a deeply personal experience, and emotional trauma can occur even if the medical outcome is positive. By addressing both the emotional and physical aspects of childbirth, healthcare teams can offer better support to women who have experienced difficult births. Personalized care plans that consider a woman’s emotional well-being ensure that she feels understood and cared for during the entire process.

Benefits of Integrating Mental Health

Incorporating mental health care into obstetric practices not only improves emotional recovery but can also lead to better overall outcomes for women. By offering education, clear communication, and compassionate care, healthcare providers can help reduce the risk of perinatal trauma, allowing women to recover fully and confidently after a challenging birth experience.

Learn More

Listen to the full episode of the Healthful Woman podcast to learn more about perinatal trauma and how healthcare providers can better support women during childbirth. The episode explores trauma-informed care and offers tips into improving the birth experience.

Carnegie Imaging for Women blogs are intended for educational purposes only and do not replace certified professional care. Medical conditions vary and change frequently. Please ask your doctor any questions you may have regarding your condition to receive a proper diagnosis or risk analysis. Thank you!