Dealing with the Aftermath of a Traumatic Birth

Up to 45% of all news moms in the USA experience some degree of birth trauma according to research published in The Journal of Perinatal Education. While each birthing experience is unique, any amount of trauma can have a lasting impact on both the new mom as well as her baby. The consequences can be far-reaching, affecting both their physical and emotional well-being. Here are a few things you can do to help you recover from a difficult birth as quickly as possible.

Process the Experience

While it may seem like a good idea to pretend that you are not at all affected by the traumatic birth, it is essential that you acknowledge it and process the experience to the best of your ability. In order to fully process what has happened and to speed up the physical and emotional recovery of both you and your baby, you need to gain insight into what happened. Your doctor or midwife will be able to provide answers to your questions and, where needed, refer you to relevant specialists. You and your baby may also both have physical concerns that need to be attended to, in which case it is once again important to seek out advice from your healthcare team while learning as much as you can about the extent of any conditions or injuries brought on by the birth trauma.

Seek Out Legal Assistance

Although not all traumatic births lead to severe birth injuries, there are many that do. These birth injuries can have a lifelong, harrowing impact on the affected children as well as their families. Apart from having to deal with the physical and emotional aspects of the injury, you may also be faced with a pile of medical bills and never-ending unforeseen expenses. Having a good birth injury lawyer on your side can be a saving grace when it comes to seeking out fair compensation. Depending on the nature and severity of the injury, you may be entitled to compensation for past and future medical expenses, physical and emotional pain and suffering, and the costs associated with long-term care. Although financial compensation cannot completely undo the birth injury, it can make it somewhat easier for you and your family to deal with.

Be Kind to Yourself

It is very common for new moms to blame themselves for any birth trauma that may have occurred. It is very important to remember that even though the birth did not go according to plan, it does not make you a bad person or a bad mom. The distress you are likely experiencing is completely normal and your mindset will become more positive in time. If you are finding it particularly difficult to cope, you may be experiencing a severe bout of ‘baby blues’ on top of the anguish brought on by the birth trauma. Don’t be ashamed to ask for help, both from your loved ones, and don’t be quick to turn down any support that is offered. Be kind to yourself and make time to do things that make you happy and keep your mind occupied.

Thousands of new moms experience a traumatic birth every year. While no amount of preparation can prevent all instances of trauma from occurring, knowing what to do to speed up the recovery process, however, can make a world of difference to both mom and baby.