Postpartum Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
Approximately 1 percent to 6 percent of women experience postpartum post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) after childbirth. Most often it is caused by real or perceived trauma during childbirth such as unplanned C-section, health issues with the baby, and feelings of powerlessness, poor communication and/or lack of support and reassurance during the delivery.
Women who have experienced a previous trauma, such as rape or sexual abuse, are at higher risk for experiencing postpartum PTSD.
Symptoms include:
- Intrusive re-experiencing of a past traumatic event
- Flashbacks or nightmares
- Avoidance of stimuli associated with the event, including thoughts, feelings, people, places and details of the event
- Lack of interest in friends and family
- Persistent, increased arousal (irritability, difficulty sleeping, hypervigilance, exaggerated startle response)
- Anxiety and panic attacks
- Feeling a sense of unreality and detachment
Postpartum post-traumatic stress disorder is treatable. Read more about treatment options.
