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Early identification of clinically significant obsessive-compulsive symptoms during the perinatal period is essential, yet these symptoms are frequently missed or misdiagnosed.

A poetic exploration of the light and shadows that one woman with undiagnosed postpartum OCD experienced as she entered motherhood. Lucy’s thoughts are also shared in an illustrated blog called Mama’s Got Stickies (Substack) in the hopes of supporting others through similar experiences. “My daughter was pushed back inside then exposed and pulled from me. She did not make a sound, but she was alive. Then, just as violently, I began to disappear." Episode 6: And with that,

Misdiagnosed symptoms. Missed signs silenced by shame, guilt, or fear. When safety isn’t prioritized in clinical environments, the consequences can be profound. This is one woman's struggle with postpartum Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD).

Many patients who experience this event often state how grateful they feel to be alive in the time immediately following the event, however, all those supporting them should allow for, and support, a wide range of emotions so they feel validated in the trauma they experienced to get there.

“I was confused, after all, it is a very weird feeling being so grateful yet so utterly pissed off and sad.”

“I remember crying, feeling like a part of me had been taken away. My ability to have more children and a part of what made me a woman was gone. But I was alive, and at least I have had the opportunity to heal from this and watch my son grow up. …If I had to do this all over again to have him, I would.” The loss of fertility is…a loss. Allowing for grief is an important part of healing.

The word “congratulations” usually invokes positive thoughts and feelings in most of us that hear it. It is a word that is often offered to those who are pregnant or have just delivered a baby. In most cases, I would like to believe, it is a happy occasion and the new parents receive the word “congratulations” with joy and gratitude. The following story shows us what can happen when we say this word without truly appreciating how a person is receiving it. I strongly encoura

No patient’s pain should ever be dismissed. Amber’s story is one of immense strength, endurance of unimaginable pain, and the lasting impact of two traumatic births. 💡 When providers adopt trauma-informed care practices, it has the power to change lives—starting with your next patient.

It may come to a surprise to many, but a negative subjective experience of childbirth is one of the strongest predictors for postpartum PTSD. So many of the women we work with describe having a feeling of powerlessness and loss of autonomy… the feeling that nobody in the room is listening or cares.

J's story demonstrates the importance of understanding individuals in their cultural context and the need for transparent and meaningful conversation especially in times of crisis. Her words implore us to “imagine, for a moment, being a rape survivor who has been tied down to a bed, naked or nearly naked.” Perspective-taking is an essential skill in implementing trauma-informed care.

There will be grief….. Does there need to be trauma too? The NICU is perhaps one of the scariest places for any parent. In R’s story, we experience one mother’s agony and incredible love and resilience. R’s narrative also illustrates how a lack of sensitivity and compassionate care added additional trauma to her grief.

Obstetric trauma affects more than just the patient. When Margaret’s daughter went into labor, what started as a routine delivery turned into a life-threatening emergency in seconds. The aftermath left Margaret and her family feeling not only traumatized but also dismissed by hospital administrators.

Did you know that up to 44% of women report their birth experience to be traumatic? Sophie's story implores us to consider how small changes can make a powerful difference in how birthing people experience giving birth during and after the fact.

Kailee is a rape survivor. She is also a physical therapist who specializes in pelvic floor issues. This story, written entirely by the patient, is incredibly positive and teaches us that with the right preparation survivors can have a positive and healing experience during childbirth.

Patient centered care is critical. Sharing control is not always easy for providers, but it can make a world of difference for patients navigating the childbirth experience, especially for those who have PTSD. Anne’s story illustrates the power of allowing our patients to be our teachers, truly listening and collaborating while creating a care plan that allows for the most positive outcome possible.

When a patient presents with seemingly “irrational” behavior, there might be more going on than meets the eye. Mia’s story illustrates how recognition and understanding of a traumatic past led to a change in care and ultimately a positive birth experience .

Does anyone really understand? How could anyone possibly understand? This is a whisper, an urging, a challenge, a cry that I hear often from parents who have lost their child. When you lose your child, you lose yourself a little bit. This is Xenia’s Story, in her own words.

Pregnancy and Antepartum life is the most difficult thing I’ve ever experienced. But I’m alive. Because someone asked. ​ Faith's story teaches us about a new mother's desperation, resilience, and hope. It is a reminder to consider the "why" behind a patient's feelings, questions, and words in order to give them the best possible care.

Providers speak of “pain” during cesarean delivery. The patient speaks of “suffering.” Learning to see things from someone else’s perspective is the first step towards more supportive, holistic, trauma-informed care.