Will I Ever Recover after a Traumatic Delivery?

No one expects childbirth to be a breeze, but most women anticipate a fairly seamless procedure. When life-threatening trauma occurs, though, it can feel virtually impossible to cope with your emotions and overcome the experience.

Women who have suffered a traumatic birthing experience may develop post-traumatic stress disorder, or postnatal PTSD. According to the Baby Centre, symptoms might include dramatic flashbacks of the delivery, trouble sleeping, intense mood swings, and an overwhelming fear that you will experience similar trauma should you ever become pregnant again.

If you received substandard care during delivery and your baby suffered an injury as a result, you may have a valid malpractice claim. Turn to The Bowling Christiansen Law Firm to discuss your situation with a seasoned attorney who can guide you through every step of the claims process.

David A. Bowling has more than 30 years of trial experience. Call (504) 586-5200 to schedule an initial consultation with a birth injury lawyer in New Orleans.

If you are experiencing any symptoms of postnatal PTSD, talk to your primary care provider about your treatment options. In the meantime, here are just a few tips for overcoming a traumatic delivery:

1. Rediscover Your Body

Even if the traumatic birth was not your fault, you may blame yourself for the outcome. Maybe you feel like you should have been able to protect your baby, or maybe you think the incident never would have happened if you had been just a little bit stronger or a little more prepared.

Understand that although these feelings are natural, they are not an accurate representation of the truth. You are not to blame for the situation.

You can quash these feelings of inadequacy by rediscovering your body and reminding yourself just how strong and capable it really is. Take up meditation, attend a yoga class, or just relax in the bath to remind yourself that you appreciate your body.

2. Build a Support Structure

You may already have a support structure that consists of friends and loved ones, but if you are really struggling or you have any symptoms of PTSD, it is important to add a professional to your circle, as well. Today’s Parent encourages moms with PTSD to connect with other moms who have had similar experiences. Check online for a support group in your area, or join a digital forum to connect with moms from all over the world.

3. Talk It Out

Talk to your spouse, friends, or family members about the birth and how it made you feel. Even if you feel uncomfortable discussing it at first, you will soon realize that sharing the emotions you felt that day will help you come to terms with them and facilitate the overall healing process.

4. Look to the Future

Coping with a difficult delivery is hard enough without having to take care of a newborn. Try to remember that it will not always be like this, though, and your baby is going to grow up so incredibly fast. When you are feeling especially overwhelmed, just remember that this, too, shall pass.

If you had a difficult childbirth and your baby sustained serious injuries as a result, you may be able to pursue compensation for medical bills and non-economic damages. The legal team at The Bowling Christiansen Law Firm can assess your case and help you file a claim.

Call (504) 586-5200 to schedule an initial consultation with a medical malpractice attorney in New Orleans. You can learn more about birth injury claims in Louisiana by visiting USAttorneys