What is birth trauma?

Birth trauma refers to the psychological and emotional distress that can result from a difficult or traumatic experience during pregnancy, labour, or after childbirth. This can include feeling powerless, unheard, scared, or violated during the experience, even if the birth was medically “successful” or uncomplicated.

What are the symptoms of birth trauma?

Everyone’s experience is unique, but common symptoms include:

• Flashbacks or intrusive memories of the birth

• Panic attacks, anxiety, or depression

• Nightmares or disturbed sleep

• Avoiding places, people, or situations related to the birth

• Emotional numbness or detachment from the baby or others

• Guilt, shame, or self-blame

• Hypervigilance or a constant sense of fear

• Difficulty bonding with the baby

• Physical symptoms like palpitations, nausea, or body tension when triggered

How do I know if what I’m feeling is trauma, or just the baby blues or exhaustion?

Many new parents feel overwhelmed or emotional, especially in the early weeks. But if these feelings persist, worsen, or interfere with daily life and relationships, it could be trauma or perinatal mental health issues. You deserve support and understanding—your experience is valid even if others downplay it.

Can therapy really help me?

Yes. Therapy can be a powerful tool for healing. It offers a safe space to process your experience, understand your emotional responses, and begin to rebuild trust in yourself and your body. Many people find relief, clarity, and renewed strength through trauma-informed therapy.

My birth wasn’t “dramatic” or didn’t involve medical emergencies—can I still have birth trauma?

Absolutely. Trauma is about how an event is experienced, not just what happened. You might have felt frightened, dismissed, or out of control—even if your birth was considered routine. Your feelings are valid, no matter the details of the birth.

I experienced infertility, IVF, miscarriage, or baby loss—does this count as trauma?

Yes. These experiences can be deeply traumatic and often go unspoken or unsupported. Therapy can help you process grief, loss, anxiety, and the emotional toll of fertility treatments or pregnancy complications.

I’m pregnant for the first time and terrified after hearing traumatic birth stories. Is this birth trauma too?

If fear of birth (tokophobia) is affecting your wellbeing or daily life, it can absolutely be explored in therapy. You don’t need to wait for a traumatic event to seek help. Preventative, supportive care can be incredibly powerful in preparing for a positive, informed birth experience.

What is tokophobia and how is it treated?

Tokophobia is an intense fear of pregnancy or childbirth. It can exist in first-time parents or after previous traumatic experiences. Therapy can help by gently exploring the root of your fear, offering coping tools, and supporting you in finding a sense of control and calm.

My trauma is affecting my relationship and parenting. Is this normal?

You’re not alone. Trauma can impact every part of your life, from your connection with your partner to how you feel in your parenting role. Therapy can help you reconnect, rebuild, and move forward with more compassion and confidence.

Is it too late for therapy if the birth happened years ago?

It’s never too late. Many people carry unresolved trauma for years before seeking help. Healing can happen at any stage—and therapy can offer understanding, closure, and peace no matter how long ago the event occurred.

What kind of therapy is offered?

I offer trauma-informed therapy tailored to your individual experience. This may include talking therapy, body-based approaches, narrative processing, and grounding techniques. You are always in control of your pace and what you choose to share.

Do I need a diagnosis to access therapy?

No. You do not need a formal diagnosis to access support. If you’re struggling, questioning, or simply feel something isn’t right—therapy can still be helpful.

I’m unsure if what I’m feeling “counts”—should I still reach out?

Yes. If you’re questioning whether your experience is “bad enough” for help, that’s a sign you might benefit from support. You don’t need to justify your pain or compare it to others. You deserve to feel safe, heard, and supported.

How do I get started?

You can reach out via [your preferred contact method – email, phone, contact form]. I offer a free initial consultation so you can ask questions, explore your needs, and see if therapy feels right for you—no pressure, just support.

If your question wasn’t answered here, please don’t hesitate to reach out. You are not alone. Healing is possible.