Birth Trauma - Clinical Hypnotherapy (3 sessions)

Having a baby doesn’t always go as planned. Sometimes, what is meant to be a joyous occasion turns into a stressful, painful, and even traumatic experience. It is not uncommon for new mothers to feel overwhelmed by the aftermath of a difficult birth, experiencing symptoms such as flashbacks, nightmares, depression, panic attacks, and anxiety—classic signs of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

When you find yourself reliving your birth experience, it can trigger a cascade of 'fight or flight' responses as if the trauma is ongoing. It's crucial to start understanding what happened and why to begin unwinding the symptoms of PTSD.

Approximately 9% of women suffer from postpartum post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) after giving birth.

This condition often stems from real or perceived traumatic experiences during delivery or shortly thereafter. Such traumas can include:

• Prolapsed cord
• Unplanned C-section
• Use of vacuum extractor or forceps during delivery
• The baby being admitted to the NICU
• Feelings of powerlessness, inadequate communication, or insufficient support during delivery

Women with a history of previous trauma, such as sexual abuse or rape, are at an increased risk of developing postpartum PTSD. Similarly, those who have endured significant physical complications or injuries related to childbirth—like severe postpartum hemorrhage, unexpected hysterectomy, severe preeclampsia/eclampsia, major perineal tears, or cardiac disease—are also more susceptible.

Symptoms of Postpartum PTSD Symptoms may include:

• Repeated, involuntary reliving of the childbirth
• Flashbacks or nightmares
• Avoiding reminders of the event, including thoughts, feelings, and details of the birth
• Increased irritability, sleep difficulties, heightened vigilance, and an exaggerated startle reaction
• Anxiety and panic attacks
• Feelings of detachment or unreality

Postpartum PTSD is temporary and can be effectively treated with professional assistance. If you suspect you might be suffering from this condition, it is important to remember that it is not your fault, and help is available.

My clinic offers the 3-Step Rewind, a gentle and effective treatment designed to alleviate the intense feelings of helplessness and sadness associated with traumatic birth experiences, helping you gain closure and adjust your emotional responses when recalling the event. Although it can’t change what happened, it can significantly alter how you feel about it.

As a certified Clinical Hypnotherapist, Psychotherapist and Childbirth Doula with over 300 successful therapy sessions, I understand the delicate nature of traumatic birth stories. Our sessions are designed to be a safe space where you can feel heard, have your feelings acknowledged and validated, and start the process of healing.

Session Overview:

1. Initial Consultation (1 hour): An informal discussion about the 3-Step Rewind process, which includes a brief relaxation and breathing exercise.

2. Main Session (2 hours):

   • Overview of what to expect.
   • Birth debrief: It’s okay if you haven’t spoken about your birth; writing it down before our meeting is also effective.
   • Relaxation and rewind technique.
   • Post-technique discussion.

3. Follow-up Session (1 hour):

   • Discussion on changes noticed.
   • Relaxation exercise.
   • Concluding conversation.

Sessions can be held via Zoom or face-to-face in the comfort of your home, providing flexibility and ease.

Let me help you navigate through this challenging time with care and support, aiming to restore peace and positivity to your life after birth.