Childbirth is a unique experience that can occasionally lead to unforeseen complications and health conditions. Around 25-34% of women experience traumatic births, according to Penny Simkin. If you're one of them, it is completely understandable if you feel that it's extremely challenging to find your way past it all. However, there are things you can do to release yourself from your birth trauma.
Process Your Feelings
First and foremost, you need to process your feelings. Ignoring one's emotions following a traumatic event actually slows down the healing process, according to the American Psychological Association. It is common to feel distressed, guilty, and even shamed after undergoing birth trauma. You can start to process your feelings by vocalizing them to yourself or by writing them down. Acknowledging your feelings on the matter can help you start the process of healing and letting go of hard feelings you may be nurturing.
Seek A Legal Remedy
The common narrative by hospitals and medical establishments is that birth trauma and fatalities are often caused by elements beyond their control. However, an investigation by USA Today found that misdiagnosis, delayed care, and even a failure to follow safety measures are sometimes involved. In such a case, obtaining justice provides you an opportunity to heal and move past the trauma. To do that, you will need the help of a birth injury lawyer. Keep in mind that justice takes many forms, and in the case of hospitals, justice comes in the form of settlements rather than apologies. Starting a legal process can help usher you toward healing.
Connect With Your Community
It is often very tempting to withdraw into yourself or isolate yourself from loved ones and friends following a traumatic event. This is something that you must avoid doing, as the simple act of having someone there with you can trigger endorphins and other hormones that help to alleviate stress. Keep in mind that you do not have to speak about your experience or your feelings if you're not ready. Comfort can begin simply by sharing a connection with those that you trust. Engage in everyday activities that you're able to do, such as cooking, watching movies, or gushing over the newest member of your family.
Get Physical
Those that undergo traumatic events like birth trauma experience a feeling of being 'stuck,' says Jeanne Segal, M.D. Appropriate physical activity can help combat that feeling by boosting your energy and motivation. Gentle exercises that utilize your limbs like swimming or dancing can help your body produce endorphins and make you feel happier than you've been lately. Making it a habit builds a mindful element into your day and gives your body much-needed exercise to stay healthy and functional.
Birth trauma can be difficult to overcome, but it can be achieved. By giving yourself time, getting the right support, and pursuing legal justice, you can slowly begin to feel like your old self again. It's best to remember that trying times may come, but they can also go if you actively fight against them.
