Resources for Postpartum PTSD

An all too common experience for women in the United States is that of experiencing a traumatic birth. Some of these traumatic experiences are reflected in our maternal mortality rate which has been steadily climbing for years. USA Today goes in-depth in this article.

Embarrassingly, the United States ranks the worst among developed nations when it comes to the maternal mortality rate.

It is now more dangerous for women in the United States today to give birth, than it was for their mothers. Unfortunately our health care system is failing to protect by not using known evidence-based standards of care that can prevent medical emergencies during and after delivery. Not only is this contributing to the rising maternal mortality rate, but many women are experiencing traumatic experiences during birth. These experiences could cause moms to develop postpartum PTSD.

If you find yourself still distressed by your childbirth experience, make sure you consult with a therapist who specializes in treating women with postpartum PTSD.

In addition, there are some online resources that many women who have had traumatic birth experiences have found helpful:

PATTCh is Dedicated to the prevention and treatment of traumatic childbirth.

Birth Trauma Association supports parents who have experienced birth trauma.

International Cesarean Awareness Network is a non-profit organization whose mission is to improve maternal-child health.

Postpartum Support International's mission is to promote awareness, prevention and treatment of mental health issues related to childbearing in every country worldwide.

Looking to treat your postpartum PTSD? Better Being Main Line offers individual counseling, marriage counseling and couples therapy for women and couples dealing with postpartum PTSD. We provide evidence-based trauma informed care like EMDR therapy. Meet us in our office in Bryn Mawr, or online from anywhere in Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, the main line and Bryn Mawr.

by: Heather Davidson Ed.M., MA, LPC, CST