Eye movement desensitisation and reprocessing treatment for traumatic birth: The experiences of mothers and partners

Eye movement desensitisation and reprocessing (EMDR) is recommended in clinical guidelines as an intervention for women following a traumatic birth. However, little is known about how mothers and partners perceive EMDR in this context. This study explores the experiences of mothers who accessed EMDR following a traumatic birth, and their partners' perspectives.

A qualitative design was employed to capture in-depth accounts of 11 participants' experiences. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with mothers who had received EMDR for birth trauma, and their partners. Data was analysed using reflexive thematic analysis.

Interrelated themes were developed whereby participants described a movement from intense distress towards greater emotional and physical stability as well as a re-established sense of safety. EMDR was experienced as supporting meaning-making and validation of the traumatic birth which intersected with reflections on future reproductive choices. Participants also described a renewed sense of self, increased self-compassion and a strengthening in relationships with partners, children and the wider social world. Alongside therapeutic change, participants highlighted significant systemic and practical factors impacting access to EMDR, particularly for bereaved parents. Partners' accounts revealed a largely under-recognised experience of trauma, shaped by helplessness, emotional suppression and limited access to support.

EMDR was experienced as a meaningful and supportive intervention for many parents following traumatic birth, embedded within relational and systemic contexts that can facilitate or hinder recovery. The findings highlight the importance of trauma-informed and inclusive perinatal mental services that recognise partners' and bereaved parents' experiences and address barriers to accessing care.