Providers
Many obstetric providers are just beginning to understand the impact that a traumatic birth experience can have on the physical and psychological health of the mother-baby dyad and the extent to which a history of previous sexual trauma can affect the birth experience.
As providers, we are well trained to identify risks, diagnose signs and symptoms of physical disease processes, and to implement the best evidence-based therapies. Unfortunately, many of us are ill equipped to identify the risks, signs and symptoms for psychological disease processes such as PTSD. As a consequence of these shortcomings in our training, we may misdiagnose these patients and unintentionally place them at an increased risk of “re-traumatization” resulting in a negative birth experience, post-partum depression, or impaired neonatal bonding.1
Trauma-informed care focuses on four basic principles: Realize the impact of the trauma, recognize the signs and symptoms of trauma, respond by integrating trauma knowledge into policies, procedures, and practices, and resist re-traumatizing individuals. 2
The Empowerment Equation is a platform for communication between patients and providers. It was created to empower trauma survivors to realize how their past trauma can impact their current delivery and to understand the importance of disclosing aspects about their past to a competent trauma-informed provider.
It also offers educational tools and resources for providers to understand what trauma-informed care might look like in obstetrics and to assist in the development of multidisciplinary care plans that allow for optimal understanding and respect for the patient’s situation.
As providers, we are well trained to identify risks, diagnose signs and symptoms of physical disease processes, and to implement the best evidence-based therapies. Unfortunately, many of us are ill equipped to identify the risks, signs and symptoms for psychological disease processes such as PTSD. As a consequence of these shortcomings in our training, we may misdiagnose these patients and unintentionally place them at an increased risk of “re-traumatization” resulting in a negative birth experience, post-partum depression, or impaired neonatal bonding.1
Trauma-informed care focuses on four basic principles: Realize the impact of the trauma, recognize the signs and symptoms of trauma, respond by integrating trauma knowledge into policies, procedures, and practices, and resist re-traumatizing individuals. 2
The Empowerment Equation is a platform for communication between patients and providers. It was created to empower trauma survivors to realize how their past trauma can impact their current delivery and to understand the importance of disclosing aspects about their past to a competent trauma-informed provider.
It also offers educational tools and resources for providers to understand what trauma-informed care might look like in obstetrics and to assist in the development of multidisciplinary care plans that allow for optimal understanding and respect for the patient’s situation.
- Seng JS, Sperlich M, Low LK, Ronis DL, Muzik M, Liberzon I. Childhood abuse history, posttraumatic stress disorder, postpartum mental health and bonding: A prospective cohort study. Journal of midwifery & women’s health. 2013;58(1):57-68. doi:10.1111/j.1542-2011.2012.00237.x.
- The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Service Administration (SAMHSA)
Upcoming Symposiums“Obstetric Trauma: Past, present and future.
A time for trauma-informed care on Labor & Delivery.” This symposium explores:
Length: 1-2 hours (Length may vary based on individual preferences.) "Autumn at Nemacolin: Contemporary Topics in OB/GYN" September 21 and 22, 2018 Nemacolin Woodlands Conference Center Farmington, Pennsylvania www.aghme.org Contact Dr. Vogel to learn more. |
Helpful Resources
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