Birth Experiences Matter

August 2022

During one of my overseas doula experiences, a laboring woman was abruptly wheeled into the operating room as soon as she started pushing. Her feet were then tied to the footrests with a rope, lest she got too feisty during the birth. She later shared how traumatizing that incident was for her. When I shared this story with a colleague of mine in the California Bay Area, she mentioned having exactly that type of birth experience – right here in the United States – some 30 years ago.

While it is important to maintain the physical safety and well-being of birthing people and their babies during the perinatal period, it is also important to be mindful of the psychosocial aspects surrounding this period, when birthing families may be most vulnerable to experiencing both short-term and long-term trauma.

In 1991, Penny Simkin – one of the founders of PATTCh – published a study in the Birth journal about women’s long-term perceptions of their first birth experience. She found that the most influential element in women’s satisfaction (high or low) with their birth experience, as recalled 15 to 20 years later, is how they remember being cared for by their clinical care providers. This work provided the inspiration for Penny’s professional career devoted to doula work.

By providing online resources and continuing education opportunities for childbearing families and the professionals who serve them, PATTCh is dedicated to building upon the influential work of people such as Penny, to prevent and treat perinatal trauma. 

As you continue to learn, work, and grow in the realm of perinatal health, be mindful of how your interactions with patients/clients might impact them. Do they feel heard, understood, and cared for during prenatal visits? Do they have a voice and choice for how to cope during labor and delivery? Do they have access to timely and relevant postpartum care? How will they remember their child’s birthday? What role could you play to support a safe perinatal experience? I invite you to strive to be a positive and empowering influence in the childbearing journeys of the families you serve.

Stay safe and be well…

Warm Regards,

Muna Bashir

PATTCh Board President 2022 – 2023