Most expectant mothers wish for a smooth, safe, and quick delivery of their newborn. Unfortunately, it isn’t always the outcome, as complications can arise that may impact a pregnant woman and their baby’s health.
If you or your baby have experienced distress, trauma, or medical issues during childbirth, support is available in many forms to help your family move forward. Read the following advice on how to recover from a traumatic birth.
Talk to a Healthcare Practitioner
Don’t bottle your emotions inside following a traumatic birth. Talk to a healthcare practitioner about how you are feeling. Depending on your needs, they may recommend a specific treatment, such as prescription medication, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), or talking therapy. Never feel ashamed to discuss your feelings with a medical professional, as many parents struggle with poor mental health following a traumatic birth.
Seek Financial Justice for a Birth Injury
Unfortunately, injuries can occur during childbirth that may have life-altering consequences for your baby. There is no question a birth injury is a traumatic experience for the whole family, including a child’s parents. Every newborn should be delivered in a safe, supportive environment, which is why you must not hesitate to seek financial justice for any injury during labor, such as birth paralysis. Learn more about parents’ legal rights following birth paralysis injuries and potentially seek compensation.
Never Blame Yourself
Guilt is common following a traumatic birth. For instance, many women blame themselves for not receiving a form of medical assistance, such as a c-section, vacuum delivery, IV medication, or forceps. Also, they might believe they should have advocated for their needs more before or during labor. Yet, you must never blame yourself for what happened during childbirth. Labor is complex, and it is a medical professional’s responsibility to create a safe environment for mother and baby using their knowledge and skills, not yours.
Stop Comparing Yourself to Others
Comparing a childbirth experience to others may cause more upset, anger, or frustration, especially if your family members or friends had a smooth delivery. Every labor is different, which is why you must never compare yourself and your story to others. If you do so, it could cause you to focus on the negative experience and even lead to you resenting your loved ones.
Join a Support Group
If you find it hard to confide in your loved ones about a traumatic birth, it might help to join a support group. It will provide an opportunity to chat with people who have endured a similar experience, and it might feel helpful to share your story with people you don’t know. As the members will have experienced a similar situation, you might find it easier to talk openly and honestly in a non-judgemental, supportive setting.
Recovering from a traumatic birth isn’t easy, but it is possible. Small steps could help you move forward with your life and help you mentally and physically recover from the painful experience.