Anesthesiologists' Role in Recognition, Prevention, and Treatment of Childbirth-Related Posttraumatic Stress Disorder

Blake D Mergler1, Esther J Kim1, James E Miranda1

  • 1From the Departments of Anesthesiology and Critical Care.

Anesthesia and Analgesia
|September 4, 2024
PubMed

Childbirth-related posttraumatic stress disorder (CB-PTSD) is increasingly common and consequential for pregnant patients. Throughout the labor experience and beyond, anesthesiologists are central to creating a psychological safe space for patients and play an essential role in preventing, recognizing, and treating CB-PTSD. This narrative review summarizes the current literature surrounding risk factors for CB-PTSD that are relevant to anesthesiologists; patients' symptoms or signs anesthesiologists should look out for; and ways anesthesiologists may be involved in preventing and treating this condition.

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