A Trauma-informed Approach to Postpartum Care

Amina White1, Karen Saxer2, Sheela Raja3

  • 1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

Distressing or traumatic perinatal experiences and adverse health outcomes can lead to particularly challenging postpartum experiences for patients and families. By adopting a trauma-informed care approach, the health care team can provide much-needed support, prevent additional harm, and promote healing. We propose practical communication, behavioral, and procedural considerations for integrating trauma-informed care principles into routine postpartum care, with attention to populations that have been marginalized. We see postpartum care as a critical component of holistic patient recovery and an opportunity to facilitate posttraumatic growth so that all families can thrive.

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