Post-traumatic Stress Disorder and Antepartum Complications: a Novel Risk Factor for Gestational Diabetes and Preeclampsia.
Shaw JG, Asch SM, Katon JG, Shaw KA, Kimerling R, Frayne SM, Phibbs CS.
Paediatr Perinat Epidemiol. 2017 May;31(3):185-194. doi: 10.1111/ppe.12349. Epub 2017 Mar 22.
Abstract
BACKGROUND:
Prior work shows that Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) predicts an increased risk of preterm birth, but the causal pathway(s) are uncertain. We evaluate the associations between PTSD and antepartum complications to explore how PTSD’s pathophysiology impacts pregnancy.
METHODS:
This retrospective cohort analysis of all Veterans Health Administration (VA)-covered deliveries from 2000-12 used the data of VA clinical and administration. Mothers with current PTSD were identified using the ICD-9 diagnostic codes (i.e. code present during the antepartum year), as were those with historical PTSD. Medical and administrative data were used to identify the relevant obstetric diagnoses, demographics and health, and military deployment history. We used Poisson regression with robust error variance to derive the adjusted relative risk estimates (RR) for the association of PTSD with five clinically relevant antepartum complications [gestational diabetes (GDM), preeclampsia, gestational hypertension, growth restriction, and abruption]. Secondary outcomes included proxies for obstetric complexity (repeat hospitalisation, prolonged delivery hospitalisation, and caesarean delivery).
RESULTS:
Of the 15 986 singleton deliveries, 2977 (19%) were in mothers with PTSD diagnoses (1880 (12%) current PTSD). Mothers with the complication GDM were 4.9% and those with preeclampsia were 4.6% of all births. After adjustment, a current PTSD diagnosis (reference = no PTSD) was associated with an increased risk of GDM (RR 1.4, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.2, 1.7) and preeclampsia (RR 1.3, 95% CI 1.1, 1.6). PTSD also predicted prolonged (>4 day) delivery hospitalisation (RR 1.2, 95% CI 1.01, 1.4), and repeat hospitalisations (RR 1.4, 95% CI 1.2, 1.6), but not caesarean delivery.
CONCLUSIONS:
The observed association of PTSD with GDM and preeclampsia is consistent with our nascent understanding of PTSD as a disruptor of neuroendocrine and cardiovascular health.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28328031
Post-traumatic stress disorder in the perinatal period: A concept analysis.
Vignato J, Georges JM, Bush RA, Connelly CD.
J Clin Nurs. 2017 Mar 15. doi: 10.1111/jocn.13800.
Abstract
AIMS AND OBJECTIVES:
To report an analysis of the concept of perinatal post-traumatic stress disorder.
BACKGROUND:
Prevalence of perinatal post-traumatic stress disorder is rising in the USA, with 9% of the U.S. perinatal population diagnosed with the disorder and an additional 18% being at risk for the condition. Left untreated, adverse maternal-child outcomes result in increased morbidity, mortality and healthcare costs.
DESIGN:
Concept analysis via Walker and Avant’s approach.
METHODS:
The databases Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL), Medline, Academic Search Premier and PsychINFO were searched for articles, written in English, published between 2006-2015, containing the terms perinatal and post-traumaticstress disorder.
RESULTS:
Perinatal post-traumatic stress disorder owns unique attributes, antecedents and outcomes when compared to post-traumaticstress disorder in other contexts, and may be defined as a disorder arising after a traumatic experience, diagnosed any time from conception to 6 months postpartum, lasting longer than 1 month, leading to specific negative maternal symptoms and poor maternal-infant outcomes. Attributes include a diagnostic time frame (conception to 6 months postpartum), harmful prior or current trauma and specific diagnostic symptomatology defined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th edition. Antecedents were identified as trauma(perinatal complications and abuse), postpartum depression and previous psychiatric history. Consequences comprised adverse maternal-infant outcomes.
CONCLUSIONS:
Further research on perinatal post-traumatic stress disorder antecedents, attributes and outcomes in ethnically diverse populations may provide clinicians a more comprehensive framework for identifying and treating perinatal post-traumatic stress disorder.
RELEVANCE TO CLINICAL PRACTICE:
Nurses are encouraged to increase their awareness of perinatal post-traumatic stress disorder for early assessment and intervention, and prevention of adverse maternal-infant outcomes.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28295746
Maternal mind-mindedness as a linking mechanism between childbirth-related posttraumatic stress symptoms and parenting stress.
Camisasca E, Procaccia R, Miragoli S, Valtolina GG, Di Blasio P.
Health Care Women Int. 2017 Jun;38(6):593-612. doi: 10.1080/07399332.2017.1296840. Epub 2017 Feb 19.
Abstract
The researchers of this study have two aims. The first aim is to verify whether posttraumatic stress (PTS) symptoms, evaluated at 87 hours and at 3 months postpartum, are associated with maternal mind-mindedness (MM) and parenting stress, measured at 17 months postpartum. The second aim is to investigate, at 17 months, the predictive effects of PTS symptoms on the dimensions of parenting stress and to explore whether MM mediates these associations. Forty-one mother-infant dyads participated in the study. The results show that at 17 months, hyper-arousal symptoms predicted both MM and parenting stress. MM was a linking mechanism between maternal PTS symptoms and parenting stress.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28278020
“Nothing’s actually happened to me.”: the experiences of fathers who found childbirth traumatic.
Etheridge J, Slade P.
BMC Pregnancy Childbirth. 2017 Mar 7;17(1):80. doi: 10.1186/s12884-017-1259-y.
Abstract
BACKGROUND:
Given the limited research into men’s experiences of being present at childbirth this study explored the experiences of fathers who found childbirth traumatic. The aim of the research was to investigate how men coped with these experiences; the impact on their lives; and their views on what may have helped to reduce distress.
METHODS:
Participants were recruited via websites relating to birth trauma and parenthood. A consent and screening questionnaire was used to ensure that participants met the inclusion criteria of: being resident in the UK; being 16 years or older; having been present at the birth and answering yes to the question “At some point during the childbirth I experienced feelings of intense fear, helplessness or horror”. Semi-structured telephone interviews were completed with 11 fathers who reported finding childbirth traumatic. Participants also completed the Impact of Event Scale as a measure of trauma symptoms. Template Analysis was used to analyse the interview data.
RESULTS:
Childbirth was experienced as “a rollercoaster of emotion” because of the speed and unexpectedness of events. Men described fears of death, mirroring their partner’s distress; trying ‘to keep it together’ and helplessly watching a catastrophe unfold. Fathers felt themselves abandoned by staff with a lack of information. Men were subsequently distressed and preoccupied with the birth events but tended to feel that their responses were unjustified and tried to cope through avoidance. Men described the need for support but reluctance to receive it.
CONCLUSIONS:
Fathers may experience extreme distress as a result of childbirth which is exacerbated by aspects of current maternity care. Maternity services need to be aware of the potential impacts of fathers’ attendance at childbirth and attend to fathers’, as well as mothers’, emotional responses.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28270116
Trauma Type and Posttraumatic Stress Disorder as Predictors of Parenting Stress in Trauma-Exposed Mothers.
Wilson CK, Padrón E, Samuelson KW.
Violence Vict. 2017 Feb 1;32(1):141-158. doi: 10.1891/0886-6708.VV-D-13-00077
Abstract
Trauma exposure is associated with various parenting difficulties, but few studies have examined relationships between trauma, posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and parenting stress. Parenting stress is an important facet of parenting and mediates the relationship between parental trauma exposure and negative child outcomes (Owen, Thompson, & Kaslow, 2006). We examined trauma type (child maltreatment, intimate partner violence, community violence, and non-interpersonal traumas) and PTSD symptoms as predictors of parenting stress in a sample of 52 trauma-exposed mothers. Community violence exposure and PTSD symptom severity accounted for significant variance in parenting stress. Further analyses revealed that emotional numbing was the only PTSD symptom cluster accounting for variance in parenting stress scores. Results highlight the importance of addressing community violence exposure and emotion regulation difficulties with trauma-exposed mothers.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28234203
Risk factors for the development of post-traumatic stress disorder and coping strategies in mothers and fathers following infant hospitalisation in the neonatal intensive care unit.
Aftyka A, Rybojad B, Rosa W, Wróbel A, Karakuła-Juchnowicz H.
J Clin Nurs. 2017 Feb 23. doi: 10.1111/jocn.13773. [Epub ahead of print]
Abstract
AIMS AND OBJECTIVES:
The aim of this study was to identify the potential risk factors for the development of post-traumatic stress disorder in mothers and fathers following infant hospitalisation in the neonatal intensive care unit.
BACKGROUND:
The development of neonatal intensive care units has increased the survival rate of infants. However, one of the major parental problems is post-traumatic stress disorder.
DESIGN:
An observational study covered 125 parents (72 mothers and 53 fathers) of infants aged 3-12 months who were hospitalised in the neonatal intensive care unit during the neonatal period.
SETTING:
Third-referral neonatal intensive care unit. Several standardised and self-reported research tools were used to estimate the level of post-traumatic stress symptoms (Impact Event Scale-Revised), perceived stress (Perceived Stress Scale) and coping strategies (COPE Inventory). The respondents also completed a Parent and Infant Characteristic Questionnaire.
RESULTS:
The mothers and fathers did not differ in their parental and infant characteristics. Post-traumatic stress disorder was present in 60% of the mothers and 47% of the fathers. Compared to the fathers, the mothers felt greater stress (p = .020) and presented a higher severity of post-traumatic stress disorder (p < .001). Previous miscarriages (p = .023) and the presence of chronic diseases (p = .032) were risk factors for post-traumatic stress disorder in the mothers. In the fathers, an Apgar test at 1 min after birth (p = .030) and a partner’s post-traumatic stress disorder (p = .038) were related to post-traumatic stress disorder. The mothers compared to the fathers were more likely to use strategies such as: positive reinterpretation and growth, focusing on and venting of emotions, instrumental social support, religious coping and acceptance. In the fathers, the predictors included an Apgar score at 1 min after birth, a lack of congenital anomalies in the child and mental disengagement.
CONCLUSION:
Risk factors for post-traumatic stress disorder, as well as coping strategies, differ in women compare to men.
RELEVANCE TO CLINICAL PRACTICE:
Knowledge of risk factors for post-traumatic stress disorder, specific to men and women, may help identify the parents in whom probability of the occurrence of this disorder is increased.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28231614
Maternal Interpersonal Trauma and Child Social-Emotional Development: An Intergenerational Effect.
Folger AT, Putnam KT, Putnam FW, Peugh JL, Eismann EA, Sa T, Shapiro RA, Van Ginkel JB, Ammerman RT.
Paediatr Perinat Epidemiol. 2017 Mar;31(2):99-107. doi: 10.1111/ppe.12341. Epub 2017 Jan 31.
Abstract
BACKGROUND:
Evidence suggests that maternal interpersonal trauma can adversely affect offspring health, but little is known about potential transmission pathways. We investigated whether interpersonal trauma exposure had direct and indirect associations with offspring social-emotional development at 12-months of age in an at-risk, home visited population.
METHODS:
A retrospective cohort study was conducted of 1172 mother-child dyads who participated in a multi-site, early childhood home visiting program. Children were born January 2007 to June 2010 and data were collected at enrolment (prenatal/birth) through 12-months of age. Multivariable path analyses were used to examine the relationship between maternal interpersonal trauma, subsequent psychosocial mediators (maternal depressive symptoms, social support, and home environment), and the outcome of child social-emotional development measured with the Ages and Stages Questionnaire: Social-Emotional (ASQ:SE). Maternal interpersonal trauma was characterized as any previous exposure, the level of exposure, and type (e.g. abuse) of exposure.
RESULTS:
The prevalence of maternal interpersonal trauma exposure was 69.1%, and exposures ranged from 1 type (19.3%) to 7 types (2.3%). Interpersonal trauma was associated with a 3.6 point (95% confidence interval 1.8, 5.4) higher ASQ:SE score among offspring and indicated greater developmental risk. An estimated 23.4% of the total effect was mediated by increased maternal depressive symptoms and lower social support. Differential effects were observed by the level and type of interpersonal trauma exposure.
CONCLUSION:
Maternal interpersonal trauma exposures can negatively impact child social-emotional development, acting in part through maternal psychosocial factors. Future research is needed to further elucidate the mechanisms of intergenerational risk.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28140478
Testing a cognitive model to predict posttraumatic stress disorder following childbirth.
King L, McKenzie-McHarg K, Horsch A.
BMC Pregnancy Childbirth. 2017 Jan 14;17(1):32. doi: 10.1186/s12884-016-1194-3.
Abstract
BACKGROUND:
One third of women describes their childbirth as traumatic and between 0.8 and 6.9% goes on to develop posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The cognitive model of PTSD has been shown to be applicable to a range of trauma samples. However, childbirth is qualitatively different to other trauma types and special consideration needs to be taken when applying it to this population. Previous studies have investigated some cognitive variables in isolation but no study has so far looked at all the key processes described in the cognitive model. This study therefore aimed to investigate whether theoretically-derived variables of the cognitive model explain unique variance in postnatal PTSD symptoms when key demographic, obstetric and clinical risk factors are controlled for.
METHOD:
One-hundred and fifty-seven women who were between 1 and 12 months post-partum (M = 6.5 months) completed validated questionnaires assessing PTSD and depressive symptoms, childbirth experience, postnatal social support, trauma memory, peritraumatic processing, negative appraisals, dysfunctional cognitive and behavioural strategies and obstetric as well as demographic risk factors in an online survey.
RESULTS:
A PTSD screening questionnaire suggested that 5.7% of the sample might fulfil diagnostic criteria for PTSD. Overall, risk factors alone predicted 43% of variance in PTSD symptoms and cognitive behavioural factors alone predicted 72.7%. A final model including both risk factors and cognitive behavioural factors explained 73.7% of the variance in PTSD symptoms, 37.1% of which was unique variance predicted by cognitive factors.
CONCLUSIONS:
All variables derived from Ehlers and Clark’s cognitive model significantly explained variance in PTSD symptoms following childbirth, even when clinical, demographic and obstetric were controlled for. Our findings suggest that the CBT model is applicable and useful as a way of understanding and informing the treatment of PTSD following childbirth.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28088194
Childhood sexual abuse, intimate partner violence during pregnancy, and post traumatic stress symptoms following childbirth: a path analysis.
Oliveira AG, Reichenheim ME, Moraes CL, Howard LM, Lobato G.
Arch Womens Ment Health. 2017 Apr;20(2):297-309. doi: 10.1007/s00737-016-0705-6. Epub 2016 Dec 28.
Abstract
The aim of the study was to explore the pathways by which childhood sexual abuse (CSA), psychological and physical intimate partner violence (IPV) during pregnancy, and other covariates relate to each other and to posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms in the postpartum period. The sample comprised 456 women who gave birth at a maternity service for high-risk pregnancies in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, interviewed at 6-8 weeks after birth. A path analysis was carried out to explore the postulated pathways between exposures and outcome. Trauma History Questionnaire, Conflict Tactics Scales and Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Checklist were used to assess information about exposures of main interest and outcome. The link between CSA and PTSD symptoms was mediated by history of trauma, psychiatric history, psychological IPV, and fear of childbirth during pregnancy. Physical IPV was directly associated with postnatal PTSDsymptoms, whereas psychological IPV connection seemed to be partially mediated by physical abuse and fear of childbirth during pregnancy. The role of CSA, IPV, and other psychosocial characteristics on the occurrence of PTSD symptoms following childbirth as well as the intricate network of these events should be acknowledged in clinic and intervention approaches.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28032212
Posttraumatic stress and depression may undermine abuse survivors’ self-efficacy in the obstetric care setting.
Stevens NR, Tirone V, Lillis TA, Holmgreen L, Chen-McCracken A, Hobfoll SE.
J Psychosom Obstet Gynaecol. 2017 Jun;38(2):103-110. doi: 10.1080/0167482X.2016.1266480. Epub 2016 Dec 14.
Abstract
INTRODUCTION:
Posttraumatic stress symptoms (PTS) are associated with increased risk of obstetric complications among pregnant survivors of trauma, abuse and interpersonal violence, but little is known about how PTS affects women’s actual experiences of obstetric care. This study investigated the rate at which abuse history was detected by obstetricians, whether abuse survivors experienced more invasive exams than is typically indicated for routine obstetric care, and whether psychological distress was associated with abuse survivors’ sense of self-efficacy when communicating their obstetric care needs.
METHODS:
Forty-one pregnant abuse survivors completed questionnaires about abuse history, current psychological distress and self-efficacy for communicating obstetric care needs and preferences. Electronic medical records (EMRs) were reviewed to examine frequency of invasive prenatal obstetric procedures (e.g. removal of clothing for external genital examination, pelvic exams and procedures) and to examine the detection rate of abuse histories during the initial obstetric visit.
RESULTS:
The majority of participants (83%) reported at least one past incident of violent physical or sexual assault. Obstetricians detected abuse histories in less than one quarter of cases. Nearly half of participants (46%) received invasive exams for non-routine reasons. PTS and depression symptoms were associated with lower self-efficacy in communicating obstetric care preferences.
DISCUSSION:
Women most at risk for experiencing distress during their obstetric visits and/or undergoing potentially distressing procedures may also be the least likely to communicate their distress to obstetricians. Results are discussed with implications for improving screening for abuse screening and distress symptoms as well as need for trauma-sensitive obstetric practices.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27960615
A socioecological model of posttraumatic stress among Australian midwives.
Leinweber J, Creedy DK, Rowe H, Gamble J.
Midwifery. 2017 Feb;45:7-13. doi: 10.1016/j.midw.2016.12.001. Epub 2016 Dec 6.
Abstract
OBJECTIVE:
to develop a comprehensive model of personal, trauma event-related and workplace-related risk factors for posttraumatic stresssubsequent to witnessing birth trauma among Australian midwives.
DESIGN:
a descriptive, cross-sectional design was used.
PARTICIPANTS:
members of the Australian College of Midwives were invited to complete an online survey.
MEASUREMENTS:
the survey included items about witnessing a traumatic birth event and previous experiences of life trauma. Traumasymptoms were assessed with the Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Symptom Scale Self-Report measure. Empathy was assessed with the Interpersonal Reactivity Index. Decision authority and psychological demand in the workplace were measured with the Job Content Questionnaire. Variables that showed a significant univariate association with probable posttraumatic stress disorder were entered into a multivariate logistic regression model.
FINDINGS:
601 completed survey responses were analysed. The multivariable model was statistically significant and explained 27.7% (Nagelkerke R square) of the variance in posttraumatic stress symptoms and correctly classified 84.1% of cases. Odds ratios indicated that intention to leave the profession, a peritraumatic reaction of horror, peritraumatic feelings of guilt, and a personal traumatic birth experience were strongly associated with probable Posttraumatic Stress Disorder.
CONCLUSIONS:
risk factors for posttraumatic stress following professional exposure to traumatic birth events among midwives are complex and multi-factorial. Posttraumatic stress may contribute to attrition in midwifery. Trauma-informed care and practice may reduce the incidence of traumatic births and subsequent posttraumatic stress reactions in women and midwives providing care
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27960122
“Am I too emotional for this job?” An exploration of student midwives’ experiences of coping with traumatic events in the labour ward.
Coldridge L, Davies S.
Midwifery. 2017 Feb;45:1-6. doi: 10.1016/j.midw.2016.11.008. Epub 2016 Nov 28.
Abstract
BACKGROUND:
midwifery is emotionally challenging work, and learning to be a midwife brings its own particular challenges. For the student midwife, clinical placement in a hospital labour ward is especially demanding. In the context of organisational tensions and pressures the experience of supporting women through the unpredictable intensity of the labour process can be a significant source of stress for student midwives. Although increasing attention is now being paid to midwives’ traumatic experiences and wellbeing few researchers have examined the traumatic experiences of student midwives. Such research is necessary to support the women in their care as well as to protect and retain future midwives.
AIM:
this paper develops themes from a research study by Davies and Coldridge (2015) which explored student midwives’ sense of what was traumatic for them during their undergraduate midwifery education and how they were supported with such events. It examines the psychological tensions and anxieties that students face from a psychotherapeutic perspective.
DESIGN:
a qualitative descriptive study using semi-structured interviews.
SETTING:
a midwifery undergraduate programme in one university in the North West of England.
PARTICIPANTS:
11second and third year students.
ANALYSIS:
interviews were analysed using interpretative phenomenological analysis.
FINDINGS:
the study found five themes related to what the students found traumatic. The first theme Wearing the Blues referred to their enculturation within the profession and experiences within practice environments. A second theme No Man’s Land explored students’ role in the existential space between the woman and the qualified midwives. Three further themes described the experiences of engaging with emergency or unforeseen events in practice and how they coped with them (“Get the Red Box!”, The Aftermath and Learning to Cope).This paper re-examines aspects of the themes from a psychotherapeutic perspective.
KEY CONCLUSIONS:
researchers have suggested that midwives’ empathic relationships with women may leave them particularly vulnerable to secondary traumatic stress. For student midwives in the study the close relationships they formed with women, coupled with their diminished control as learners may have amplified their personal vulnerability. The profession as a whole is seen by them as struggling to help them to safely and creatively articulate the emotional freight of the role.
IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE:
for midwifery educators, a focus on the psychological complexities in the midwifery role could assist in giving voice to and normalising the inevitable anxieties and difficulties inherent in the role. Further research could explore whether assisting students to have a psychological language with which to reflect upon this emotionally challenging work may promote safety, resilience and self-care.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27936414
Effect of Previous Posttraumatic Stress in the Perinatal Period.
Geller PA, Stasko EC.
J Obstet Gynecol Neonatal Nurs. 2017 Jun 28. pii: S0884-2175(17)30282-4. doi: 10.1016/j.jogn.2017.04.136. [Epub ahead of print]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE:
To review the extant literature on the effect of traumatic experiences that pre-date conception, pregnancy, and the postpartum period (perinatal period) and present a thematic overview of current issues in this relatively new area of inquiry.
DATA SOURCES:
Electronic databases CINAHL, PsychINFO, and PubMed were searched. Manual searches of bibliographies supplemented the electronic search.
STUDY SELECTION:
Peer-reviewed articles written in English on the role of posttraumatic stress disorder during the perinatal period were included.
DATA EXTRACTION:
Key findings relevant to perinatal posttraumatic stress that were reported in primary sources and meta-analyses were organized according to themes, including The Role of Childbirth, Comorbidity With Depression and Anxiety, Risk Factors for Perinatal PTSD, High-Risk Health Behaviors, and Association With Adverse Health Outcomes.
DATA SYNTHESIS:
Across studies, antenatal posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) rates were estimated between 2.3% and 24%, and observed prevalence rates during the postnatal period ranged from 1% to 20%; however, many researchers failed to assess PTSD that existed before or during pregnancy, and when preexisting PTSD is a controlled variable, postpartum rates drop to 2% to 4.7%. In addition to prenatal depression and anxiety and pre-pregnancy history of psychiatric disorders, history of sexual trauma, childhood sexual abuse, intimate partner violence, and psychosocial attributes are risk factors for development or exacerbation of perinatal PTSD.
CONCLUSION:
Women’s health care providers should evaluate for PTSD in routine mental health assessments during and after pregnancy, especially with a reported history of trauma or the presence of a mood or anxiety disorder. Such screening will allow women to receive needed treatment and referrals and mitigate the potentially negative sequelae of PTSD. Future investigators must recognize the importance of subsyndromal posttraumatic stress symptoms and individual differences in responses to trauma.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28667832
The Perfect Storm of Trauma: The experiences of women who have experienced birth trauma and subsequently accessed residential parenting services in Australia.
Priddis HS, Keedle H, Dahlen H.
Women Birth. 2017 Jun 27. pii: S1871-5192(17)30061-6. doi: 10.1016/j.wombi.2017.06.007. [Epub ahead of print]
Abstract
BACKGROUND:
There appears to be a chasm between idealised motherhood and reality, and for women who experience birth trauma this can be more extreme and impact on mental health. Australia is unique in providing residential parenting services to support women with parenting needs such as sleep or feeding difficulties. Women who attend residential parenting services have experienced higher rates of intervention in birth and poor perinatal mental health but it is unknown how birth trauma may impact on early parenting.
AIMS AND OBJECTIVES:
This study aims to explore the early parenting experiences of women who have accessed residential parenting services in Australia and consider their birth was traumatic.
METHODS:
In-depth interviews were conducted with eight women across Australia who had experienced birth trauma and accessed residential parenting services in the early parenting period. These interviews were conducted both face to face and over the telephone. The data was analysed using thematic analysis.
FINDINGS:
One overarching theme was identified: “The Perfect Storm of Trauma” which identified that the participants in this study who accessed residential parenting services were more likely to have entered pregnancy with pre-existing vulnerabilities, and experienced a culmination of traumatic events during labour, birth, and in the early parenting period. Four subthemes were identified: “Bringing Baggage to Birth”, “Trauma through a Thousand Cuts”, “Thrown into the Pressure Cooker”, and “Trying to work it all out”.
CONCLUSION:
How women are cared for during their labour, birth and postnatal period impacts on how they manage early parenthood. Support is crucial for women, including practical parenting support, and emotional support by health professionals and peers.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28666701
Factors associated with post-traumatic stress symptoms (PTSS) 4-6 weeks and 6 months after birth: A longitudinal population-based study.
Dikmen-Yildiz P, Ayers S, Phillips L.
J Affect Disord. 2017 Jun 21;221:238-245. doi: 10.1016/j.jad.2017.06.049. [Epub ahead of print]
Abstract
BACKGROUND:
Identifying factors that precipitate and maintain post-traumatic stress symptoms (PTSS) after birth is important to inform clinical and research practice; yet, prospective longitudinal studies on the predictors of PTSS are limited. This study aimed to determine the pregnancy and postpartum factors associated with PTSS at 4-6 weeks and 6-months postpartum.
METHOD:
A systematic sample of 950 pregnant women were recruited from three maternity hospitals in Turkey. Participants completed assessments of depression, anxiety, PTSS and social support in pregnancy, 4-6 weeks and 6-months postpartum. Fear of childbirth was assessed in pregnancy and 4-6 weeks after birth.
RESULTS:
Regression models showed that PTSS six months after birth were associated with anxiety and PTSS in pregnancy, complications during birth, satisfaction with health professionals, fear of childbirth 4-6 weeks after birth, PTSS and depression 4-6 weeks after birth, social support 4-6 weeks after birth, traumatic events after birth, need for psychological help, and social support 6-months after birth. PTSS was highly comorbid with depression and anxiety at all-time points. The most robust predictor of PTSS at 6-months postpartum was PTSS at 4-6 weeks postpartum. Intra-partum complications were not associated with PTSS 4-6 weeks after birth. No socio-demographic variables were correlated with PTSS postpartum.
LIMITATIONS:
Self-report questionnaires were used to measure outcomes. This study is based on sampling from public hospitals so may not represent women treated in private hospitals.
CONCLUSIONS:
Associated risk factors may help to identify women at risk of PTSS after birth and to inform targeted early intervention.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28654849
The protective role of maternal posttraumatic growth and cognitive trauma processing among Palestinian mothers and infants.
Diab SY, Isosävi S, Qouta SR, Kuittinen S, Punamäki RL.
Infant Behav Dev. 2017 Jun 12. pii: S0163-6383(16)30179-5. doi: 10.1016/j.infbeh.2017.05.008. [Epub ahead of print]
Abstract
War survivors use multiple cognitive and emotional processes to protect their mental health from the negative impacts of trauma. Because mothers and infants may be especially vulnerable to trauma in conditions of war, it is urgent to determine which cognitive and emotional processes are effective for preventing negative trauma impacts.” This study examined whether mothers’ high posttraumatic growth (PTG) and positive posttraumatic cognitions (PTC) protected (a) their own mental health and (b) their infants’ stress regulation and sensorimotor and language development from the effects of war trauma. The participants were 511 Palestinian mothers and their infants living in the Gaza strip. The mothers were interviewed in their second trimester of pregnancy (T1) as well as when the infant was four months (T2) and twelve months (T3). Mothers reported posttraumatic growth (PTG; Tedeschi & Calhoun, 1996) at T1 and posttraumatic cognitions (PTCI; Foa et al., 1999) at T2. They also reported their exposure to traumatic war events both at T1 and T3 and described their mental health conditions (e.g., PTSD and/or depressive and dissociation symptoms) at T3. The Infant Behaviour Questionnaire (IBQ) was used to measure infants’ stressregulation at T2 and sensorimotor and language development at T3. The results, based on regression analyses with interaction terms between trauma and PTG, showed that high levels of traumatic war events were not associated with high levels of PTSD, depressive, or dissociation symptoms among mothers showing high levels of PTG. This suggests that PTG may protect maternal mental health from the effects of trauma. In turn, positive maternal PTCs appeared to protect the infants’ stress regulation from the effects of war trauma. The study concludes by discussing ways to develop and implement preventive interventions for mother-infant dyads in war conditions.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28619421
Post-traumatic stress disorder in parturients delivering by caesarean section and the implication of anaesthesia: a prospective cohort study.
Lopez U, Meyer M, Loures V, Iselin-Chaves I, Epiney M, Kern C, Haller G.
Health Qual Life Outcomes. 2017 Jun 2;15(1):118. doi: 10.1186/s12955-017-0692-y.
Abstract
BACKGROUND:
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) occurs in 1-7% of women following childbirth. While having a caesarean section (C-section) is known to be a significant risk factor for postpartum PTSD, it is currently unknown whether coexisting anaesthesia-related factors are also associated to the disorder. The aim of this study was to assess anaesthesia-linked factors in the development of acute postpartumPTSD.
METHODS:
We performed a prospective cohort study on women having a C-section in a tertiary hospital in Switzerland. Patients were followed up six weeks postpartum. Patient and procedure characteristics, past morbidity or traumatic events, psychosocial status and stressful perinatal events were measured. Outcome was divided into two categories: full PTSD disease and PTSD profile. This was based on the number of DSM-IV criteria of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders 4th edition (DSM-IV) present. The PTSD Checklist Scale and the Clinician Administered PTSD Scale were used for measurement.
RESULTS:
Of the 280 patients included, 217 (77.5%) answered the questionnaires and 175 (62.5%) answered to an additional phone interview. Twenty (9.2%) had a PTSD profile and six (2.7%) a PTSD. When a full predictive model of risk factors for PTSD profile was built using logistic regression, maternal prepartum and intrapartum complications, anaesthetic complications and dissociative experiences during C-section were found to be the significant predictors for PTSD profile.
CONCLUSION:
This is the first study to show in parturients having a C-section that an anaesthesia complication is an independent risk factor for postpartum PTSD and PTSD profile development, in addition to known perinatal and maternal risk factors.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28577570
Preventing traumatic childbirth experiences: 2192 women’s perceptions and views.
Hollander MH, van Hastenberg E, van Dillen J, van Pampus MG, de Miranda E, Stramrood CAI.
Arch Womens Ment Health. 2017 May 29. doi: 10.1007/s00737-017-0729-6. [Epub ahead of print]
Abstract
The purpose of this study is to explore and quantify perceptions and experiences of women with a traumatic childbirth experience in order to identify areas for prevention and to help midwives and obstetricians improve woman-centered care. A retrospective survey was conducted online among 2192 women with a self-reported traumatic childbirth experience. Women were recruited in March 2016 through social media, including specific parent support groups. They filled out a 35-item questionnaire of which the most important items were (1) self-reported attributions of the trauma and how they believe the traumatic experience could have been prevented (2) by the caregivers or (3) by themselves. The responses most frequently given were (1) Lack and/or loss of control (54.6%), Fear for baby’s health/life (49.9%), and High intensity of pain/physical discomfort (47.4%); (2) Communicate/explain (39.1%), Listen to me (more) (36.9%), and Support me (more/better) emotionally/practically (29.8%); and (3) Nothing (37.0%), Ask for (26.9%), or Refuse (16.5%) certain interventions. Primiparous participants chose High intensity of pain/physical discomfort, Long duration of delivery, and Discrepancy between expectations and reality more often and Fear for own health/life, A bad outcome, and Delivery went too fast less often than multiparous participants. Women attribute their traumaticchildbirth experience primarily to lack and/or loss of control, issues of communication, and practical/emotional support. They believe that in many cases, their trauma could have been reduced or prevented by better communication and support by their caregiver or if they themselves had asked for or refused interventions.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28553692
Correlation between Kind of Delivery and Posttraumatic Stress Disorder.
Mahmoodi Z, Dolatian M, Shaban Z, Shams J, Alavi-Majd H, Mirabzadeh A.
Ann Med Health Sci Res. 2016 Nov-Dec;6(6):356-361. doi: 10.4103/amhsr.amhsr_397_15.
Abstract
BACKGROUND:
Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a very common mental condition and a unique anxiety disorder.
AIM:
The present study tried to examine the correlation between kind of delivery and PTSD.
SUBJECTS AND METHODS:
This prospective study evaluated 240 Iranian female residents of Tehran, Iran, during the third trimester of their pregnancy and 6-8 weeks after labor. Data were collected using the customized screening form, the Symptom Checklist-90, PTSD Symptom Scale (PSS), and Social Support Questionnaire. The collected data were then analyzed with SPSS software.
RESULTS:
According to the participants’ responses to the subscales of the PSS, reexperiencing, avoidance, and hyperarousal symptoms were present in 100, 25, and 77 participants, respectively. Moreover, 15 individuals manifested all three groups of symptoms. Therefore, the prevalence of PTSD in the studied population was 6.2%. The logistic regression analysis revealed PTSD to be 0.06 times more prevalent in women with poor social support after delivery than in those enjoying a desirable level of support (P < 0.01; odds ratio = 0.06). Based onChisquare test results, there was no significant correlation between the kind of delivery and the incidence of PTSD after delivery (P = 0.48).
CONCLUSION:
Since PTSD was more common after cesarean sections (than after vaginal deliveries), health policymakers need to develop efficient strategies to promote vaginal delivery.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28540103
Intergenerational transmission of traumatization: Theoretical framework and implications for prevention.
Lang AJ, Gartstein MA.
J Trauma Dissociation. 2017 May 16:1-14. doi: 10.1080/15299732.2017.1329773. [Epub ahead of print]
Abstract
Intergenerational transmission of traumatization (ITT) occurs when traumatized parents have offspring with increased risk for emotional and behavioral problems. Although fetal exposure to the maternal biological milieu is known to be one factor in ITT, PTSD-driven parent-child interactions represent an additional important and potentially modifiable contributor. The Perinatal Interactional Model of ITT presented herein proposes that PTSD leads to social learning and suboptimal parent-child interactions, which undermine child regulatory capacity and increase distress, largely explaining poor social-emotional outcomes for offspring of parents with PTSD. Psychosocial intervention, particularly when delivered early in pregnancy, holds the possibility of disrupting ITT.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28509617
Validity of the posttraumatic stress disorders (PTSD) checklist in pregnant women.
Gelaye B, Zheng Y, Medina-Mora ME, Rondon M, Sánchez SE, Williams MA.
BMC Psychiatry. 2017 May 12;17(1):179. doi: 10.1186/s12888-017-1304-4.
Abstract
BACKGROUND:
The PTSD Checklist-civilian (PCL-C) is one of the most commonly used self-report measures of PTSD symptoms, however, little is known about its validity when used in pregnancy. This study aims to evaluate the reliability and validity of the PCL-C as a screen for detecting PTSD symptoms among pregnant women.
METHODS:
A total of 3372 pregnant women who attended their first prenatal care visit in Lima, Peru participated in the study. We assessed the reliability of the PCL-C items using Cronbach’s alpha. Criterion validity and performance characteristics of PCL-C were assessed against an independent, blinded Clinician-Administered PTSD Scale (CAPS) interview using measures of sensitivity, specificity and receiver operating characteristics (ROC) curves. We tested construct validity using exploratory and confirmatory factor analytic approaches.
RESULTS:
The reliability of the PCL-C was excellent (Cronbach’s alpha =0.90). ROC analysis showed that a cut-off score of 26 offered optimal discriminatory power, with a sensitivity of 0.86 (95% CI: 0.78-0.92) and a specificity of 0.63 (95% CI: 0.62-0.65). The area under the ROC curve was 0.75 (95% CI: 0.71-0.78). A three-factor solution was extracted using exploratory factor analysis and was further complemented with three other models using confirmatory factor analysis (CFA). In a CFA, a three-factor model based on DSM-IV symptom structure had reasonable fit statistics with comparative fit index of 0.86 and root mean square error of approximation of 0.09.
CONCLUSION:
The Spanish-language version of the PCL-C may be used as a screening tool for pregnant women. The PCL-C has good reliability, criterion validity and factorial validity. The optimal cut-off score obtained by maximizing the sensitivity and specificity should be considered cautiously; women who screened positive may require further investigation to confirm PTSD diagnosis.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28494804
What about me? The loss of self through the experience of traumatic childbirth.
Byrne V, Egan J, Mac Neela P, Sarma K
Midwifery. 2017 Aug;51:1-11. doi: 10.1016/j.midw.2017.04.017. Epub 2017 May 1.
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE:
birth trauma has become an increasingly recognised maternal mental health issue and has important implications for both mother and infant. The importance of subjective birth experience in the development of birth trauma has been identified and may mediate the lack of theoretical consistency in this area. The current study aims to explore the subjective experience of birth traumaamong first time mothers in Ireland. It aims to separate the potential effects of peripartum depression (PPD) from this in limiting this qualitative investigation to women who reported birth trauma, without PPD.
DESIGN:
mixed methods: Quantitative methods facilitated the recruitment of participants, the selection of a homogenous sample and addressed previous methodological flaws in birth trauma research. Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) was used to explore the subjective experience of traumatic childbirth.
PARTICIPANTS:
seven, first- time mothers who reported a traumatic childbirth, without significant symptoms of PPD participated.
MEASUREMENT AND FINDINGS:
screening measures of birth trauma and PPD were completed by participants. A semi-structured interview was then conducted with each participant about their childbirth experience. Interviews were transcribed and analysed using IPA. The primary superordinate theme recounted how the identity and individuality of women is ignored and discounted, throughout the process of childbirth. Identity is challenged and altered as a result of women’s incompatibility with the maternity system.
CONCLUSIONS:
this study supports the existence of birth trauma in an Irish context and highlights the subjective experience of women as central to the development of birth trauma.
IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE:
acknowledgement and inclusion of the mother as an individual throughout the process of childbirth may be protective in limiting the experience of birth trauma.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28494225
Maternal posttraumatic stress disorder and infant developmental outcomes in a South African birth cohort study.
Koen N, Brittain K, Donald KA, Barnett W, Koopowitz S, Maré K, Zar HJ, Stein DJ.
Psychol Trauma. 2017 May;9(3):292-300. doi: 10.1037/tra0000234.
Abstract
OBJECTIVE:
To investigate the association between maternal posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and infant development in a South African birth cohort.
METHOD:
Data from the Drakenstein Child Health Study were analyzed. Maternal psychopathology was assessed using self-report and clinician-administered interviews; and 6-month infant development using the Bayley III Scales of Infant Development. Linear regression analyses explored associations between predictor and outcome variables.
RESULTS:
Data from 111 mothers and 112 infants (1 set of twins) were included. Most mothers (72%) reported lifetime trauma exposure; the lifetime prevalence of PTSD was 20%. Maternal PTSD was significantly associated with poorer fine motor and adaptive behavior – motor development; the latter remaining significant when adjusted for site, alcohol dependence, and infant head-circumference-for-age z score at birth.
CONCLUSION:
Maternal PTSD may be associated with impaired infant neurodevelopment. Further work in low- and middle-income populations may improve early childhood development in this context. (PsycINFO Database Record
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28459271
Reducing intrusive traumatic memories after emergency caesarean section: A proof-of-principle randomized controlled study.
Horsch A, Vial Y, Favrod C, Harari MM, Blackwell SE, Watson P, Iyadurai L, Bonsall MB, Holmes EA.
Behav Res Ther. 2017 Jul;94:36-47. doi: 10.1016/j.brat.2017.03.018. Epub 2017 Apr 6.
Abstract
Preventative psychological interventions to aid women after traumatic childbirth are needed. This proof-of-principle randomized controlled study evaluated whether the number of intrusive traumatic memories mothers experience after emergency caesarean section (ECS) could be reduced by a brief cognitive intervention. 56 women after ECS were randomized to one of two parallel groups in a 1:1 ratio: intervention (usual care plus cognitive task procedure) or control (usual care). The intervention group engaged in a visuospatial task (computer-game ‘Tetris’ via a handheld gaming device) for 15 min within six hours following their ECS. The primary outcome was the number of intrusive traumatic memories related to the ECS recorded in a diary for the week post-ECS. As predicted, compared with controls, the intervention group reported fewer intrusive traumatic memories (M = 4.77, SD = 10.71 vs. M = 9.22, SD = 10.69, d = 0.647 [95% CI: 0.106, 1.182]) over 1 week (intention-to-treat analyses, primary outcome). There was a trend towards reduced acute stress re-experiencing symptoms (d = 0.503 [95% CI: -0.032, 1.033]) after 1 week (intention-to-treat analyses). Times series analysis on daily intrusions data confirmed the predicted difference between groups. 72% of women rated the intervention “rather” to “extremely” acceptable. This represents a first step in the development of an early (and potentially universal) intervention to prevent postnatal posttraumatic stress symptoms that may benefit both mother and child.
CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION:
ClinicalTrials.gov, www.clinicaltrials.gov, NCT02502513.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28453969
Screening for birth-related PTSD: psychometric properties of the Turkish version of the Posttraumatic Diagnostic Scale in postpartum women in Turkey.
Dikmen-Yildiz P, Ayers S, Phillips L.
Eur J Psychotraumatol. 2017 Apr 3;8(1):1306414. doi: 10.1080/20008198.2017.1306414. eCollection 2017.
Abstract
Background: Evidence suggests that 4% of women develop posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) after childbirth, with a potentially negative impact on women and families. Detection of postpartum PTSD is essential but few measures have been validated in this population. Objective: This study aimed to examine psychometric properties of the Turkish version of the Posttraumatic Diagnostic Scale (PDS) to screen for birth-related PTSD among postpartum women and identify factorial structure of PTSD after birth. Method: PDS was administered to 829 postpartum women recruited from three maternity hospitals in Turkey. Participants with PTSD (N = 68) and a randomly selected group of women without PTSD (N = 66), underwent a structured clinical interview (SCID). Results: PDS demonstrated high internal consistency (α = .89) and test-retest reliability between 4-6 weeks and 6-months postpartum (rs = .51). PDS showed high concurrent validity with other measures of postpartum psychopathology, rs (829) = .60 for depression and rs (829) = .61 for anxiety. Satisfactory diagnostic agreement was observed between diagnoses obtained by PDS and SCID, with good sensitivity (92%) and specificity (76%). Exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses revealed that the latent structure of birth-related PTSD was best identified by a three-factor model: re-experiencing and avoidance (RA), numbing and dysphoric-arousal (NDA) and dysphoric-arousal and anxious-arousal symptoms (DAA). Conclusions: The findings supported use of PDS as an effective screening measure for birth-related PTSD among postpartum women.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28451072
Childbirth Induced Posttraumatic Stress Syndrome: A Systematic Review of Prevalence and Risk Factors.
Dekel S, Stuebe C, Dishy G.
Front Psychol. 2017 Apr 11;8:560. doi: 10.3389/fpsyg.2017.00560. eCollection 2017.
Abstract
Background: Posttraumatic stress related with the childbirth experience of full-term delivery with health outcomes has been recently documented in a growing body of studies. The magnitude of this condition and the factors that might put a woman at risk for developing childbirth-related postpartum posttraumatic stress disorder (PP-PTSD) symptoms are not fully understood. Methods: In this systematic review of 36 articles representing quantitative studies of primarily community samples, we set to examine PP-PTSD prevalence rates and associated predictors with a focus on the role of prior PTSD and time since childbirth. Results: A significant minority of women endorsed PP-PTSD following successful birth. Acute PP-PTSD rates were between 4.6 and 6.3%, and endorsement of clinically significant PP-PTSDsymptoms was identified in up to 16.8% of women in community samples of high quality studies. Negative subjective experience of childbirth emerged as the most important predictor. Endorsement of PTSD before childbirth contributed to PP-PTSD; nevertheless, women without PTSD also exhibited PP-PTSD, with acute rates at 4.6%, signifying a new PTSD onset in the postpartum period. Conclusion: Although the majority of women cope well, childbirth for some can be perceived as a highly stressful experience and even result in the development of PP-PTSD symptoms. More research is needed to understand postpartum adaption and childbirth-related posttraumatic stress outcomes.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28443054
Post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms in pregnant Australian Indigenous women residing in rural and remote New South Wales: A cross-sectional descriptive study.
Mah B, Weatherall L, Burrows J, Blackwell CC, Gwynn J, Wadhwa P, Lumbers ER, Smith R, Rae KM.
Aust N Z J Obstet Gynaecol. 2017 Apr 7. doi: 10.1111/ajo.12618. [Epub ahead of print]
Abstract
BACKGROUND:
Pregnancy can be a stressful time for many women. There is ample evidence of numerous physical and mental health inequities for Indigenous Australians. For those Indigenous women who are pregnant, it is established that there is a higher incidence of poor physical perinatal outcomes when compared with non-Indigenous Australians. However, little evidence exists that examines stressful events and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms in pregnant women who are members of this community.
AIMS:
To quantify the rates of stressful events and PTSD symptoms in pregnant Indigenous women.
METHODS:
One hundred and fifty rural and remote Indigenous women were invited to complete a survey during each trimester of their pregnancy. The survey measures were the stressful life events and the Impact of Events Scale.
RESULTS:
Extremely high rates of PTSD symptoms were reported by participants. Approximately 40% of this group exhibited PTSDsymptoms during their pregnancy with mean score 33.38 (SD = 14.37) significantly higher than a study of European victims of crisis, including terrorism attacks (20.6, SD = 18.5).
CONCLUSIONS:
The extreme levels of PTSD symptoms found in the women participating in this study are likely to result in negative implications for both mother and infant. An urgent response must be mounted at government, health, community development and research levels to address these findings. Immediate attention needs to focus on the development of interventions to address the high levels of PTSDsymptoms that pregnant Australian Indigenous women experience.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28386930
Different coping strategies influence the development of PTSD among first-time mothers.
Tomsis Y1,2, Gelkopf M1, Yerushalmi H1, Zipori Y3.
J Matern Fetal Neonatal Med. 2017 Apr 24:1-7. doi: 10.1080/14767058.2017.1315658. [Epub ahead of print]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE:
To evaluate the different coping strategies for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), described in the non-obstetric traumaliterature, with respect to first time postpartum women.
STUDY DESIGN:
This was a prospective cohort study conducted between 2011 and 2013. Eligible women had a singleton pregnancy and delivered a healthy newborn at term. Five sets of relevant questionnaires were sent to the participants six weeks postpartum. Posttraumatic stress disorder was defined as per DSM-V criteria.
RESULTS:
One hundred and eighty eight completed questionnaires were considered for the final analysis. Two women (1.1%) had PTSD and nine women (4.8%) had partial PTSD. Coping by self-blame and/or rumination together with perception of resource loss emerged as independent variables that were significantly associated with post-traumatic symptomatology (PTS) severity. Objective birth factors such as participation in birth classes or the different modes of delivery seem to have no significant impact on postpartum PTS in our study.
CONCLUSIONS:
Cognitive coping styles such as self-blame and rumination, as well as perception of resource loss, were all related to postpartum PTS. Redirecting resources to address postpartum negative coping mechanisms may reduce the overall incidence of full and partial postpartum PTSD.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28372468
Posttraumatic Stress in Mothers Related to Giving Birth Prematurely: A Mixed Research Synthesis.
Beck CT, Harrison L.
J Am Psychiatr Nurses Assoc. 2017 Mar 1:1078390317700979. doi: 10.1177/1078390317700979. [Epub ahead of print]
Abstract
BACKGROUND:
Globally the preterm birth rate for 184 countries in 2010 was 11.1%. Preterm births can be a traumatic experience for mothers.
OBJECTIVE:
This article provides a mixed research synthesis of the quantitative and qualitative studies on posttraumatic stress in mothers who have given birth prematurely.
DESIGN:
Narrative synthesis was the mixed research synthesis approach used.
RESULTS:
Included in this narrative synthesis were quantitative prevalence studies ( n = 19), quantitative intervention studies ( n = 6), and qualitative studies ( n = 5). Prevalence rates ranged from 14% to 79%. Four of the intervention studies had significant results and two did not. Qualitative data synthesis revealed five themes: (a) shocked and horrified, (b) consuming guilt, (c) pervasive anxiety and hypervigilance, (d) intrusive thoughts, and (e) numbing and avoiding reminders.
CONCLUSIONS:
Women’s traumatic experiences of preterm birth are clearly important issues for psychiatric nurses to address.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28362564
The Trauma of Birth or Parenting a Child: Effect on Parents’ Negative Emotion in China.
Xiang Y, Chi X, Wu H, Zeng T, Chao X, Zhang P, Mo L.
Arch Psychiatr Nurs. 2017 Apr;31(2):211-216. doi: 10.1016/j.apnu.2016.10.001. Epub 2016 Oct 18.
Abstract
The present study assessed negative emotions associated with the traumas of infertility and child rearing (child’s disability or death) and the correlates of duration of trauma. The widely used Chinese Mental Health Scale was used to assess negative emotions in 294 individuals who experienced the aforementioned traumas and 124 who did not (control group). Results showed that individuals with infertility exhibited greater anxiety, depression, and solitude than the control group; bereaved parents and had greater solitude and fear than control group; and parents of children with disabilities had greater solitude than the control group. Parents who experienced the death of a child had more fear and physiological maladjustment than parents of a child with disabilities. In addition, individuals without parenting experience had higher scores on solitude, fear, and physiological disease than those with parenting experience. After controlling for demographic variables, the duration of trauma significantly negatively predicted depression in the infertile group and for bereaved parents. The results suggest that in order to prevent psychological and physiological health problems among infertile couples, parents of a disabled child, and parents who experience the death of child, family and community-based strategies should be developed and implemented.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28359435
The OptiMUM-study: EMDR therapy in pregnant women with posttraumatic stress disorder after previous childbirth and pregnant women with fear of childbirth: design of a multicentre randomized controlled trial.
Baas MA, Stramrood CA, Dijksman LM, de Jongh A, van Pampus MG.
Eur J Psychotraumatol. 2017 Feb 24;8(1):1293315. doi: 10.1080/20008198.2017.1293315. eCollection 2017.
Abstract
Background: Approximately 3% of women develop posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) after giving birth, and 7.5% of pregnant women show a pathological fear of childbirth (FoC). FoC or childbirth-related PTSD during (a subsequent) pregnancy can lead to a request for an elective caesarean section as well as adverse obstetrical and neonatal outcomes. For PTSD in general, and several subtypes of specific phobia, eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy has been proven effective, but little is known about the effects of applying EMDR during pregnancy. Objective: To describe the protocol of the OptiMUM-study. The main aim of the study is to determine whether EMDR therapy is an effective and safe treatment for pregnant women with childbirth-related PTSD or FoC. In addition, the cost-effectiveness of this approach will be analysed. Method: The single-blind OptiMUM-study consists of two two-armed randomized controlled trials (RCTs) with overlapping design. In several hospitals and community midwifery practices in Amsterdam, the Netherlands, all eligible pregnant women with a gestational age between eight and 20 weeks will be administered the Wijma delivery expectations questionnaire (WDEQ) to asses FoC. Multiparous women will also receive the PTSD checklist for DSM-5 (PCL-5) to screen for possible PTSD. The clinician administered PTSD scale (CAPS-5) will be used for assessing PTSD according to DSM-5 in women scoring above the PCL-5 cut-off value. Fifty women with childbirth-related PTSD and 120 women with FoC will be randomly allocated to either EMDR therapy carried out by a psychologist or care-as-usual. Women currently undergoing psychological treatment or women younger than 18 years will not be included. Primary outcome measures are severity of childbirth-related PTSD or FoC symptoms. Secondary outcomes are percentage of PTSDdiagnoses, percentage caesarean sections, subjective childbirth experience, obstetrical and neonatal complications, and health care costs. Results: The results are meant to provide more insight about the safety and possible effectiveness of EMDR therapy during pregnancy for women with PTSD or FoC. Conclusion: This study is the first RCT studying efficacy and safety of EMDR in pregnant women with PTSD after childbirth or Fear of Childbirth.