“Somatic Therapy helped release the trauma from the first birth and transform my second. We couldn’t be happier!”
Preparation & Release
Somatic Therapy has assisted mothers and partners prepare for first births and release and overcome fears and negative memories linked to past birth experiences.
“What is birth trauma?”
Trauma may stem from emotional distress during labour, delivery and the postpartum period. This can include unexpected challenges during birth, unplanned interventions, complications, or simply feeling unsupported throughout the process.
“Do I have birth trauma?”
If your birth experience was in any way distressing to you, it is birth trauma. It may not have to been dramatic when comparted to other stories, but it may still influence your day to day thinking and feeling. Whatever your birth story, if it affects you negatively in any way, it is trauma and you can choose to be free of it.
“Trauma can stem from simply feeling unheard or out of control during the birth process. ”
Factors that can contribute to a traumatic birth:
Difficult or long labours: A prolonged or intense labour can be physically and emotionally exhausting.
Unplanned interventions: The unexpected use of forceps, ventouse, or emergency Cesarean sections.
Birth complications: Perineal tears, postpartum hemorrhage or fetal distress.
Feeling unsupported or unheard: A lack of support from healthcare providers or feeling like one's concerns were not addressed.
Physical pain or injury: Pain or physical injury during labour or delivery.
Psychological distress: Fear, anxiety, or feeling helpless or overwhelmed during birth.
Symptoms of birth trauma can include:
Anxiety, nervousness or panic attacks.
Feelings of anger at others and or oneself.
Feelings of guilt and inner conflict.
Avoiding thinking or talking about the birth.
Changes in mood, depression, sadness, or tearfullness.
Difficulty bonding with the baby.
Flashbacks, reoccuring memories or nightmares relating to the birth.
Witnessing Birth
A birth partner can develop birth trauma too.
Seek Help - Somatic Release
If you or your partner are experiencing symptoms of birth trauma, it is important to seek help. Somatic Therapy aids release and recovery from the effects of birth - in whatever form it may present.
“I had heard many unhelpful scary birth stories from friends and family and Somatic Therapy helped me release my fears and approach the birth with confidence and a positive mindset…”
For enquiries please get in touch - Stina Richardson / info@stinarichardson.com / +44(0)77 40606910