The Relation between Birth with Cesarean Section and Posttraumatic Stress in Postpartum Women

Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate the relation between cesarean section and postpartum posttraumatic stress disorder as well as the factors that contribute to the development of posttraumatic symptoms in mothers. Materials and methods: A sample of 538 women who gave birth with emergency and elective cesarean section in a University Hospital of Thessaly, Greece, have consented to participate in a two-phase prospective study. A socio-demographic questionnaire, the stressor Criterion A, the Life Events Checklist and the Posttraumatic Checklist of the fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM-5) were used to diagnose posttraumatic symptoms in Greek postpartum mothers. Results:Out of 538 mothers, 37.2% had an emergency cesarean section and the remaining 62.8% an elective one. Posttraumatic stress was seen in 26 (26%) of women with emergency surgery and three (3%) of those with elective surgery. The present study also found that the inclusion of a neonate to the NICU, complications during pregnancy and delivery, lack of breastfeeding and lack of support from the partner were strongly associated with the development of posttraumatic symptoms. Conclusions:The results of the current study indicate the need to take measures to reduce cesarean section rates and promote vaginal delivery. The high posttraumatic stress rates make it imperative to take additional measures for the mental health of women after cesarean section, especially in those with a traumatic birth experience.