Posted: 10/11/2023
On 19 October 2023, MPs held the UK’s first ever debate in Parliament on birth trauma. Conservative MP for Stafford Theo Clarke put forward the debate, called for more support for women who have given birth, and spoke in the House of Commons about her own traumatic birth experience.
The phrase ‘birth trauma’ can refer to both physical and psychological damage caused by giving birth. Often, this term is used to describe postnatal PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder). What constitutes a traumatic birth is subjective and will differ from person to person.
Common causes of birth trauma include: a long and/or particularly painful labour; physical complications such as tearing; postnatal complications such as infection; distress or injury caused to the baby; unplanned caesarean; intervention such as forceps or ventouse delivery; and other shocking or unexpected events during the labour, or shortly after.
Theo Clarke recounted how she was separated from her baby and rushed into emergency surgery after suffering a heavy bleed. She described experiencing a third-degree tear, feeling like she was going to die, and being unsupported by hospital staff during her recovery period.
The health minister Maria Caulfield responded: “…By the early part of next year […] in England we will have a fully working maternal mental health service to support mothers experiencing moderate, severe or complex mental health difficulties.”
Also on 19 October, the Department of Health and Social Care issued a press release stating that maternity and neonatal services nationwide will be required to support and inform women who experience trauma during childbirth. The plans include specific education and support for pelvic health, and reduced waiting times for women requiring support following giving birth.
Victoria Johnson, associate in the clinical negligence team at Penningtons Manches Cooper, comments: “It is promising to see birth trauma being spoken about publicly and the reality of the postnatal period being recognised in Parliament. We often advise families who have experienced a traumatic birth. This may be due to physical complications for the mother, injury caused to the baby or a combination of both. The psychological effects of a traumatic birth can be severe and far-reaching, and may impact many areas of the mother’s life, including her relationships, career and future plans. It can also have a significant impact on the non-birthing partner.
“As part of investigating a clinical negligence claim, we need to establish whether the injury was caused by failings in medical care, but, whether or not any medical negligence has occurred, psychological support is a vital part of recovery from birth trauma. It is good news that the government seems to be starting to recognise this more.”
If you or a family member have any concerns regarding care provided during childbirth, please contact us on freephone 0800 328 9545, email clinnegspecialist@penningtonslaw.com or complete our online assessment form. An initial, free, no obligation meeting will then be arranged.
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