A qualitative description of birth trauma experiences from Ireland's first psychological birth trauma clinic

Giving birth is a significant, life-transforming event that leaves lifelong memories. Although it is commonly seen as a beautiful and empowering experience, it can nevertheless also be traumatic and cause long-term psychological problems. Birth trauma, which arises from experiences during labour and birth, is gaining wider attention as a potential clinical issue. Our study aimed to categorize and describe qualitative data from women seeking assistance at a psychological birth trauma clinic.

The study focused on analysing qualitative data from a psychological birth trauma clinic to understand women's perspectives and experiences. Thematic analysis was used for its flexibility and reliability. Out of 121 cases, 43 were excluded, resulting in 78 women included in the study.

This study identified three main themes: personal failure, failure of others, and threat to life; along with several sub-themes. These themes and sub-themes reflected the perspectives and experiences of the women in the study regarding their birth trauma experiences.

This study emphasises the need for proactive measures to address childbirth trauma effectively, and advocates for Trauma Informed Care which promotes woman-centred practises to improve quality of care and health service delivery.