Post-traumatic stress following childbirth: a review of the emerging literature and directions for research and practice

The aim of this paper is to provide a review of the emerging literature on the relationship between the experience of difficult childbirth and the development of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). First, we discuss the criteria for diagnosis of PTSD and the implications that changes in these criteria over the past decade have had for women who experience a traumatic childbirth. Although the literature is limited, it can be concluded that women who experience traumatic childbirth may go on to develop clinically significant symptoms of PTSD in the postnatal period. Second, we discuss the clinical presentation of PTSD in women who undergo childbirth. Sexual avoidance and parenting problems may be features particular to women who experience difficult and traumatic childbirth. Third, we review the empirical evidence for risk factors to the development of PTSD including childbirth related, personality and individual difference factors, and social psychological factors. Recommendation for investigation into the clinical effectiveness of social support provision for women who have experienced traumatic childbirth is made, along with recommendations for investigation into the usefulness of routine screening for PTSD.