FOR PROFESSIONALS
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do I need specialized training to work with birth trauma?
It’s a specific specialty and we recommend additional training to work with this special population.
Q: Where can I get support when I’m having a trouble with a client?
Current research has demonstrated rates of full Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) due to traumatic childbirth ranging from 5.6% (Creedy, Shochet, & Horsfall, 2000) to 9% (Beck, Gable, Sakala & Declercq, 2011). The rates of having experienced post-traumatic stress symptoms, but not a fully screened diagnosis of PTSD are as high as 18% (Beck, et al. 2011).
Q: How do I prevent trauma when in my own practice?
Coming soon!
Q: What are the causes of traumatic birth?
Coming soon!
Q: Does birth trauma always involve a physical trauma?
Even though physical injury to mother or baby often occurs during a traumatic birth, a birth can still be traumatic without such physical injury. Unfortunately, clinical symptoms of full diagnosis of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) can occur for mothers and partners following a traumatic birth, the effects of which impact attachment, parenting, and family wellness.
Q: Where can I get additional training?
PATTCh will occasionally host webinars. Visit the our Webinars and Events to view upcoming and past events. You can also receive high quality training from other organizations such as Postpartum Support International.
Q: Where can I refer clients who need help?
Coming soon!
Q: What defines a traumatic birth?
A birth is defined as traumatic if the woman was or believed she or her baby was in danger of injury or death, and she felt helpless, out of control, or alone, and can occur at any point in labor and birth (Beck, 2004a). It is important to recognize that it is the woman’s perception that determines the diagnosis, whether or not clinical staff or caregivers agree.
Q: Does birth trauma always involve PTSD?
Current research has demonstrated rates of full Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) due to traumatic childbirth ranging from 5.6% (Creedy, Shochet, & Horsfall, 2000) to 9% (Beck, Gable, Sakala & Declercq, 2011). The rates of having experienced post-traumatic stress symptoms, but not a fully screened diagnosis of PTSD are as high as 18% (Beck, et al. 2011).
Q: What is the long-term impact of PTSD from childbirth?
Long-term effects of PTSD secondary to childbirth include attachment and parenting difficulties (Bailham & Joseph, 2003).