The link between maternal mental health and a traumatic birth experience is well established. Many factors can contribute to a birth feeling traumatic — including inadequate pain relief, past sexual trauma, fear for the baby’s safety, emergency medical interventions (such as a caesarean), or feeling disrespected or unheard during labour.
Women are at their most vulnerable during childbirth, and it’s essential that they feel supported and have a sense of autonomy. A frightening or emotionally challenging birth can have lasting effects, significantly increasing the risk of postnatal depression and, in some cases, symptoms of post-traumatic stress (PTSD).
Distress left over from a traumatic birth can make it harder for new mothers to bond with their baby. Feelings of anxiety, sadness, loss of control, and ongoing worry about the baby’s health are common.
Additional risk factors that can contribute to ongoing difficulties with maternal mental health include:
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Complications with the baby’s health
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Feeling mistreated or ignored during birth
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A history of trauma or mental health difficulties
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Lack of support from a partner, family, friends, or healthcare staff
Many women are encouraged to focus on the positive outcome — that their baby is healthy — but this can unintentionally invalidate their emotional experience. Birth trauma is a genuine condition, and its impact on a mother’s wellbeing can be significant.
The good news is that recovery is absolutely possible with the right support. Early, compassionate intervention can make a real difference — helping mothers process their experiences and rebuild emotional stability.
Trauma-informed counselling can be particularly helpful, alongside partner and family support and, when appropriate, medical treatment.
I offer maternal mental health support and birth trauma counselling in Hampshire, working with women in Andover, Winchester, Salisbury, Romsey, and the surrounding villages. You don’t have to face this alone — support is available to help you heal and reconnect.
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 07759 453339