Spotting the Signs: Is Birth Trauma a Factor in Your Client’s Presentation

Recognising birth trauma is not always straightforward. Clients may not use the term "trauma," and its effects can present as anxiety, low mood, or even physical symptoms. For professionals in health, legal, and rehabilitation roles, knowing what to look for is crucial to providing appropriate support.

What Is Birth Trauma?

Birth trauma refers to the psychological distress experienced during or after childbirth, often due to perceived or actual threat to life, dignity, or wellbeing. This may stem from unexpected complications, emergency interventions, poor communication, or feeling powerless or dismissed during labour and delivery. While physical injuries may be more visible, the psychological scars can run deeper—and last longer.

Key Indicators That Birth Trauma May Be Present

1. Emotional or Behavioural Clues

• Strong emotional reactions (tearfulness, anger, numbness) when discussing the birth.

• Avoidance of medical settings, appointments, or anything that reminds them of the birth.

• Hypervigilance, panic attacks, or heightened startle responses.

2. Language That Signals Distress

• “I thought I was going to die.”

• “No one listened to me.”

• “It felt like I wasn’t in control.”

• “I wasn’t treated like a person.”

These statements can indicate a perceived threat to life, loss of autonomy, or lack of compassion—common features of traumatic experiences.

3. Physical and Functional Issues

• Chronic pain or pelvic issues without a clear cause.

• Difficulties with bonding or parenting that feel disproportionate to physical recovery.

• Sleep disruption, fatigue, or poor concentration beyond what’s typical postnatally.

4. Complex Case Dynamics

• A pattern of disengagement from services or inconsistent participation in rehabilitation.

• Heightened sensitivity to communication tone or power dynamics with professionals.

• Legal cases where emotional injury is disproportionately high compared to physical injury.

5. Clinical Red Flags
If you’re working with a client and observe:

• Flashbacks or intrusive memories of the birth,

• Persistent nightmares or sleep disruption related to the event,

• Ongoing feelings of guilt, failure, or shame linked to the birth experience,
  then psychological assessment for trauma may be appropriate.

What to Do If You Suspect Birth Trauma

If you suspect that birth trauma may be influencing your client’s engagement or recovery we advise referring to a trauma-informed psychologist or therapist with experience in perinatal mental health. For Case Managers, early referral for psychological assessment can clarify the role of trauma in the case, inform effective care planning, and help ensure the client receives support that goes beyond the physical recovery.

When supporting a client It’s important to act with sensitivity and confidence. Create space for the client to share their experience, without pressure or judgment. Use open, validating language such as: “Many people find childbirth overwhelming—would you be open to talking about what that was like for you?” Don’t underestimate the value of naming trauma—recognition alone can reduce shame and empower clients to begin the healing process.

If you would like to discuss a client who you suspect may be affected by Birth Trauma, please feel free to contact us or come to one our Case Manager Confidential drop in sessions. For more information contact sarahsawyer@healthyyoultd.co.uk.