I think everyone is becoming very familiar with the word “Trauma” these days, as well as “Post Traumatic Stress Disorder” (PTSD). Once it may have been reserved for those brave individuals who have risked their lives fighting wars or being put through the rigorous training involved in this. But it really does come in many forms. Sometimes something small can produce something quite big, or lots of little things together all add up. Things from the past piling on top of new experiences that we really have minimal control over, or certainly have no knowledge on how to manage. Whatever it is for you, it is just so very painful to experience.

One type of trauma that we see in the clinic, and that has thankfully gathered more awareness in the last few years, is that of Birth Trauma. Even 15 years ago when my beautiful daughter was born, and just before I started my studies in Women’s Health, there really was not much awareness or education surrounding this type of trauma. I don’t think childbirth was even considered to be in the realm of a traumatic experience. There sure were lots of breathing exercises, pain relief options, birth positions and alike. However, never was there any education given around my choices for delivery – including the instruments available – and what risks were involved in this to ME. As long as the baby is well and healthy… right? Looking back, I will be eternally grateful for the skilled obstetrician and midwives who were surrounding me that day. Things may have been a whole lot different had I come into hospital on a different day, in a different year or generation or in a different country.

In 2017 ABTA – the Australian Birth Trauma Association – was set up by several people, including one brave Mumma whose life was turned around after suffering significant trauma during giving birth. Since then, they have worked tirelessly to share stories and educate women and their partners on what choices they have, offer support and build a network of knowledge and skills for prevention into the future. Even though the unexpected can always happen, knowledge really is power in this situation. Knowing your risks and what is a possibility during and following birth has shown to be far less psychologically damaging than going in completely blind. Even for general surgery all your possible risks are explained by the dozen. However, for childbirth there seems to be a void of information given to women, or expectations that are seen as just “normal” so they are not mentioned. If there is at least some choice, there is empowerment and certainly better acceptance for whatever the outcome. Becoming a mother or parent is challenging enough without experiencing trauma as well and feeling powerless and alone following.

If you have already suffered a traumatic experience during giving birth, I am so sorry you endured this. If you are unsure what to do about it, or have physical ramifications following, a trained Women’s Health Physiotherapist is a safe place to turn initially. If you are currently expecting and would like to know more to help you through your journey, please reach out to Bec or Jess at Physique on 5545 1133.