Childbirth Induced Posttraumatic Stress Syndrome: A Systematic Review of Prevalence and Risk Factors

Abstract

Background: Posttraumatic stress related with the childbirth experience of full-term delivery with health outcomes has been recently documented in a growing body of studies. The magnitude of this condition and the factors that might put a woman at risk for developing childbirth-related postpartum posttraumatic stress disorder (PP-PTSD) symptoms are not fully understood.Methods: In this systematic review of 36 articles representing quantitative studies of primarily community samples, we set to examine PP-PTSD prevalence rates and associated predictors with a focus on the role of prior PTSD and time since childbirth.Results: A significant minority of women endorsed PP-PTSD following successful birth. Acute PP-PTSD rates were between 4.6 and 6.3%, and endorsement of clinically significant PP-PTSD symptoms was identified in up to 16.8% of women in community samples of high quality studies. Negative subjective experience of childbirth emerged as the most important predictor. Endorsement of PTSD before childbirth contributed to PP-PTSD; nevertheless, women without PTSD also exhibited PP-PTSD, with acute rates at 4.6%, signifying a new PTSD onset in the postpartum period.Conclusion: Although the majority of women cope well, childbirth for some can be perceived as a highly stressful experience and even result in the development of PP-PTSD symptoms. More research is needed to understand postpartum adaption and childbirth-related posttraumatic stress outcomes.

Post-traumatic stress disorder following childbirth: a study of prevalence and related factors in Iranian women

“…Similar to the present study, other studies also reported the significant relation between delivery experiences and PTSD following childbirth [18,19]. In the study conducted by Dekel et al [20], negative experience of delivery was considered as the most important predictor of PTSD following childbirth. In the study of Hollander et al [19] emotional and practical support by the medical team during labor was associated with decreased possibility of PTSD following childbirth and according to Simpson et al [21], low quality of the caregivers interactions during labor was reported as one of the most important risk factors for experiencing traumatic birth.…”

Experiences of Postpartum Women after Mindfulness Childbirth Classes: A Qualitative Study

“…Body image dissatisfaction also has consequences for women's mental health and has been positively correlated with perinatal depression symptoms across multiple studies . Another concern during this period is postpartum posttraumatic stress disorder, estimated to occur in 4% to 16% of women after childbirth . In a small feasibility study, an 8‐week mindfulness‐based class series reduced symptoms of posttraumatic stress, depression, and shame in adult survivors of trauma .…”

“…34 Another concern during this period is postpartum posttraumatic stress disorder, estimated to occur in 4% to 16% of women after childbirth. 9 In a small feasibility study, an 8-week mindfulness-based class series reduced symptoms of posttraumatic stress, depression, and shame in adult survivors of trauma. 35 Although it may not be feasible to offer mindfulness classes specifically for women who experienced traumatic childbirth, incorporating a trauma-informed perspective into mindfulness classes may benefit women survivors of trauma.…”

“…The physical challenges during this time are often accompanied by emotional distress or even psychiatric morbidities. The estimated prevalence of postpartum depression symptoms in the United States is 11.5%, with postpartum posttraumatic stress disorder estimated at 5% . Despite these potential challenges, there is little assessment or support from health care providers after the 6‐week postpartum visit.…”

Perception of Childbirth Experiences of Japanese Women in Bali, Indonesia: A Qualitative Study

“…Mental health issues can easily ariseduring the early postpartum period [40,49,50]; although the majority of women coped well. Nevertheless, for some childbirthwas a stressful experience, with the increased potential for developing postpartum post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms [51].Literature reveals that the prevalence of postnatal depression is highest among migrant women [52]. Brief midwife-led counselling interventions for women who report distressing birth experiences have been found to be effective for reducing symptoms of trauma, depression, stress, and coping with feelings of self-blame [53].…”