{
    "componentChunkName": "component---src-templates-post-js",
    "path": "/articles/complicated-births/",
    "result": {"data":{"sanityArticle":{"title":"Complicated births","_type":"article","datePublished":"21 February 2022","header":{"background":{"value":"#86DECF"},"headline":"Complicated births","text":[{"_key":"4cb45a23789f","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"17f9bf4f3b39","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Giving birth can lead to a range of complex feelings, especially when the experience is a difficult or traumatic one."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"image":{"asset":{"_id":"image-1902e03f3f91598a64f0cd7c00c9ee1cacd1612d-2400x1600-jpg"},"crop":null,"hotspot":null,"alt":null}},"content":[{"_key":"a4a63e6bfe11","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"8081f186267e0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Sometimes our hopes and dreams for our birth experience don't match the reality of what happens when we have a baby. Birth complications can include physical and emotional difficulties and it can be hard to process. "}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"3bcf6b49059e","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"0c4ceccd098a0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Sometimes during the birth process, things might have been rushed or didn’t go to plan. You might have felt you hadn’t really understood what was happening or what you were giving consent to. You might have felt powerless or that you had no control over the situation."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"115849a4470d","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"1e895e18d1ed0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Here you'll find information about experiencing a complicated birth, and some tips to help you find extra support if you need it."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"7797b3a8abc6","_type":"quote","quote":"I thought the birth would go a certain way and it just didn’t turn out how I expected."}],"sidebarTitle":"Helpful Information","sidebarPosts":[{"title":"Birth trauma and recovery ","_type":"article","slug":{"current":"childbirth-trauma-and-recovery"},"header":{"image":{"asset":{"_id":"image-e3f2eeee43dd28db708f12a67872dd6dd461744d-2500x1667-jpg"},"crop":null,"hotspot":null,"alt":"Mum holding newborn"},"text":[{"_key":"d21de4deaac0","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"acdd495ebba80","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"During pregnancy, it's common to worry about what our birth experience will be like. Many of us expect that birthing our babies will be hard but rewarding work. Yet very few of us feel prepared for complications in labour and childbirth."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]}}],"modules":[{"_key":"ae961b55e1e1","_type":"freeText","include":null,"eyebrow":null,"text":[{"_key":"2972e3f8aaa2","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"cb46face57ab","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"What is intervention?"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"h3"},{"_key":"314bf630cd2a","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"e06c0ac4eb120","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Sometimes during the birth, health care providers may identify an increased risk or possibility of risk to the health of mother and/or baby. After an assessment, healthcare providers may advise that the safest option is to use methods or tools to assist the birth. They will discuss the options and risks with the parents and together a decision is made whether to assist the birth. This is known as an ‘intervention’."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"fa73ca833e06","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"4e5c48a4ab9c0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Types of interventions might include an induction, pain relief, an emergency caesarean section, an episiotomy, blood transfusion or the use of forceps or a vacuum."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"background":null},{"_key":"2daa6e19b577","_type":"freeText","include":null,"eyebrow":null,"text":[{"_key":"8ca4dbe835bf","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"ebe55194e2470","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Acknowledging our individual responses to a complicated birth"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"h3"},{"_key":"5a9f0036ff51","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"664d4101dca00","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Our individual responses to these kinds of interventions can be extremely complex and very personal. Some people find their experiences with interventions more difficult to process. Often parents express that it was not the intervention itself that was traumatic, but feeling like they didn’t have a say in the decisions that were made, feeling uninformed, or feeling they didn’t consent to procedures that occurred."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"4170c7b65d03","_type":"quote","attribution":"Bao","quote":"I feel like we were very naïve going into things, and that just made us feel like we had to trust in the doctors and the system and go along with it. We just felt very overwhelmed and carried along by everything that was happening."},{"_key":"c663c14c1e68","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"6c303c8796440","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"We know that up to one in three women giving birth in Australia experience their birth as traumatic."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"6a5b4f72787f","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"bca005799a700","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Every birthing parent will have their own unique response to the birth. Birth-related trauma can affect dads and non-birthing parents too. "}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"635d456f0fc9","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"21174ca993ec0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"It might even be something that a person watching from the outside might not consider to be distressing or traumatic. It’s important to know that trauma is an individual experience. It can affect every person differently, even within one family."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"86364ecc5e66","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"ea64cd7c9a750","_type":"span","marks":["strong"],"text":"If your experience of the birth-related event was traumatic, your feelings are valid."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"443629260d54","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"70fee131c8780","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"You might have felt frightened, unsafe, powerless or unheard. These kinds of feelings may play a role in the development of perinatal mental health conditions like post-traumatic stress, anxiety and/or depression for the birthing and/or non-birthing parent."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"background":null},{"_key":"ed1f10b4832e","_type":"faqBlock","include":null,"title":null,"noNumbers":true,"text":null,"questions":[{"question":[{"_key":"cc08010a01aa","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"38162f09f7da0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"A traumatic birth can be made more difficult when we've had previous experience of: "}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"answer":[{"_key":"4b48c64c56bf","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"0ba3deb6c7d90","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"childhood trauma,"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"5b51d3b587fb","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"35b6645a2f7f0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"previous sexual abuse,"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"2491a4683122","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"bf6d9dd602e90","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"physical illness or injury,"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"48033ab981e7","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"94b45927d1b60","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"relationship conflict,"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"7b45306bc9cc","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"0bd1ef792d760","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"family violence,"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"10e350425532","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"c5fae771631e0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"previous experiences with the medical system or mental health system."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},{"question":[{"_key":"99e674972401","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"f0115223b66b0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Birth experience can also be influenced by:"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"answer":[{"_key":"c40684af2197","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"c278deedb9030","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"our expectations of birth and if we had a birth plan,"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"88e13e79a90b","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"59d444e83f280","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"our understanding or lack of understanding around the birthing process,"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"182cccefc19d","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"787faeb7d5f00","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"whether or not our cultural needs are met,"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"cbde639fa82a","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"00df51bb27140","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"lack of health advice during pregnancy,"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"dc48ea17da57","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"b4dbbc34fb740","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"confusing or conflicting health advice about pregnancy and birth,"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"a67acbf0374c","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"eec42e2771bb0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"the level of consent and decision-making we hold during the birth process,"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"9b1f90c17cc1","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"63dae72e91b70","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"being able or unable to be an active and empowered participant in the birth,"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"02c523820e28","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"515c63767b7d0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"our relationship with the healthcare providers and whether we felt supported and heard by them."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]}]},{"_key":"68502542570f","_type":"freeText","include":null,"eyebrow":null,"text":[{"_key":"d73bd0174ed4","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"4d00428951ab0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Your feelings are valid"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"h3"},{"_key":"fb7e11449472","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"cf35d7fd3da50","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Sometimes well-meaning healthcare providers and your support people can encourage you to put the birth behind you and focus on your healthy baby. They might say, “a healthy child is all that matters.”"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"90acf9df382d","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"de885927f1b40","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"This kind of advice is often not helpful. Your feelings do matter. If you experienced a difficult birth, either as the birthing or non-birthing parent, it is important that this is acknowledged and that you're given opportunities to talk through your experiences and process what has happened. Talking about your experience and feelings around your birth in a safe and non-judgmental space can be therapeutic. Sitting on difficult or troubling feelings without addressing them can make them grow stronger and affect your emotional and mental wellbeing, and your relationship with your baby."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"a9046a2d5b51","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"9addc4628b91","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Note: some complicated births may result in physical injury for mum. These injuries may or may not be identified immediately. If in doubt about this, don't to be afraid to ask questions. For more information, the "},{"_key":"13077d6fe0b0","_type":"span","marks":["af6d4b9431a2"],"text":"Australasian Birth Trauma Association"},{"_key":"50d4ffc9c7f1","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":" website has some great information."}],"markDefs":[{"_key":"af6d4b9431a2","_type":"link","href":"http://www.birthtrauma.org.au/where-to-start/what-is-birth-trauma/what-is-physical-birth-trauma/","linkType":"external"}],"style":"normal"}],"background":null},{"_key":"f6d1f1a96ba8","_type":"freeText","include":null,"eyebrow":null,"text":[{"_key":"19c8543fb57c","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"d5c773eedb29","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Memory loss or a delayed response"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"h3"},{"_key":"0ce9d257830a","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"9dbf645b0d260","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"On PANDA’s National Helpline we regularly hear parents say they don’t remember much about the birthing process. Memory loss is a common response to trauma, and our brain’s way of ‘protecting’ us from distressing events including deep grief and loss. "}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"460155b016eb","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"545010180fcf0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Parents may feel ‘emotionally numb’ after the birth. Sometimes this can affect how we bond with our new baby. "}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"075f49938e96","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"d7aaed5e9261","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Sometimes difficult emotions about the birth don’t arrive until we’ve had time to settle into our new reality and we’ve had time to reflect. This might be weeks or months after the birth and can occur on the anniversary of your baby’s birth. "}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"2f90e89f30f3","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"d79c28f4b5fd0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Sometimes the feelings then come in a rush, and it can feel overwhelming."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"background":null},{"_key":"6cbf98f99f69","_type":"freeText","include":null,"eyebrow":null,"text":[{"_key":"afb0345d7fd3","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"9055836f624a0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Understanding what happened during the birth can help "}],"markDefs":[],"style":"h3"},{"_key":"a2ee33f9e7b9","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"4a7f439b57e80","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Receiving clear information from a healthcare provider about the details surrounding your birth experience can help. If you have a trusted obstetrician, midwife, doctor or doula that you feel safe sharing your feelings with, you might find it helpful to talk to them about your birth experience."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"66d202c8fd1b","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"53695e49ce77","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Some parents find it helpful to talk about their birth with someone from the hospital, while others find it more helpful to speak to someone in the community, like a counsellor or peer support practitioner. Peer support practitioners are available via the PANDA Helpline and the "},{"_key":"253dfca4619d","_type":"span","marks":["1c4047813071"],"text":"Australasian Birth Trauma Association"},{"_key":"89fe1af79285","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":". They have their own lived experience and are trained to support and offer guidance to other parents."}],"markDefs":[{"_key":"1c4047813071","_type":"link","blank":true,"linkType":"external","url":"https://birthtrauma.org.au/"}],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"1b42f4d7cd7d","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"dd208562eb5d0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Sometimes it helps to write down a list of questions beforehand. This can help you remember everything you want to talk about and stay on track during your discussions. If it makes you feel more comfortable, you might like to take a support person or partner with you."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"f1465ceb3086","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"e46f76301acd0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":""}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"6d6aa1c73df3","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"4a96f5cd81f90","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Finding the right support "}],"markDefs":[],"style":"h3"},{"_key":"c7c0f48f51ad","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"034421ee651b0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"If you are experiencing difficult emotions following a complicated birth, you are not alone, and there is help available. "}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"ac9a0c39903e","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"6c2ceea9124a0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"PANDA’s National Helpline is available to talk through your feelings around the birth. The Helpline provides a safe and confidential space. PANDA’s highly trained and caring counsellors and peer support practitioners can help you work through these challenges by talking openly and honestly about your thoughts and feelings about the birth. If you aren’t ready to talk about your birth, PANDA can support you in other ways. The Helpline will be there to listen when you feel ready. "}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"96f11572fd7c","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"dabd5ef2753b0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"You can find resources on the PANDA website such as the "},{"_key":"e2831d267471","_type":"span","marks":["ef12c77e46e1"],"text":"mental health checklist"},{"_key":"55c0e6468960","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":" and "},{"_key":"dad79587b30f","_type":"span","marks":["91be237bf142"],"text":"Dot the Bot - PANDA’s chatbot,"},{"_key":"aaf1f36fb318","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":" who can direct you to helpful information and tools for self-care."}],"markDefs":[{"_key":"ef12c77e46e1","_type":"link","blank":true,"document":{"_id":"daf2d071-7838-4740-9046-ceea02bb539e","_type":"page","_rev":"YnHcRrfS97TenynEl53Hw7","_createdAt":"2022-03-26T05:53:52Z","_updatedAt":"2024-06-03T01:58:37Z","datePublished":"2022-03-26","header":{"_type":"pageHeader","background":{"title":"peach80","value":"#FFD29D"},"headline":"Mental health checklist for expecting and new parents","image":{"_type":"imageWithAlt","asset":{"_ref":"image-8722a72369d7376531b62be2893e87bc63f60916-2500x1667-jpg","_type":"reference"}},"text":[{"_key":"a082b012152f","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"f00eff1315270","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Our mental health checklist can help you to see if what you’re experiencing or observing in a loved one could be reason to seek help."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},"modules":[{"_key":"9c8457648f51","_type":"checklist","field":"content"},{"_key":"d357a9cf76fd","_type":"freeText","text":[{"_key":"253abb45c8d6","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"427ca182f643","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"PANDA's mental health checklist asks you questions based on possible symptoms of postnatal anxiety and/or depression. Experiencing these symptoms does not make you a bad parent, but could indicate that you need some support with your mental wellbeing."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"463fc8b84283","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"5d5d3acdf957","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"This checklist will not give you a diagnosis, only a health professional can provide this. Completing a checklist will help you to better understand what you are experiencing, and assist you to get help if needed."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"753786e649d3","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"d0a3376867ef","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Complete this checklist to see if what you’re experiencing could be a reason to seek help. The checklist will ask you about changes you have noticed in three different areas: your body and behaviour, your thoughts and feelings and your relationships."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},{"_key":"49b495512d5d","_type":"chatBotModule","field":"content"}],"showFeedbackForm":true,"slug":{"_type":"slug","current":"checklist"},"title":"Mental health checklist for expecting and new parents","id":"-55bbef1c-75fb-51e4-8ab8-46c9903bd318","children":[],"internal":{"type":"SanityPage","contentDigest":"2383324c54af42138b60eb476cbb4bd6","owner":"gatsby-source-sanity","counter":384},"parent":null},"linkType":"internal"},{"_key":"91be237bf142","_type":"link","blank":true,"document":{"_id":"d0655ec2-9c11-4bdf-9502-81922d32c017","_type":"chatPage","_rev":"V1StxG0pLufRfR4q82uU3z","_createdAt":"2024-05-22T01:03:59Z","_updatedAt":"2024-05-22T01:03:59Z","slug":{"_type":"slug","current":"chat"},"title":"Chat","id":"-a04f4bd9-5806-503f-b914-47fc09de4488","children":[],"internal":{"type":"SanityChatPage","contentDigest":"855a8ab9566424f789a3fd07cf44c04f","owner":"gatsby-source-sanity","counter":204},"parent":null},"linkType":"internal"}],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"209572959d3c","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"557d0e8ea8030","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"You can also find support via the "},{"_key":"557d0e8ea8031","_type":"span","marks":["9158e0891396"],"text":"Birth Trauma – Australasian Birth Trauma Association"}],"markDefs":[{"_key":"9158e0891396","_type":"link","href":"https://birthtrauma.org.au/","linkType":"external","url":"https://birthtrauma.org.au/"}],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"1553092bb8e6","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"c1f6fe6b3e1b0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":""}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"da3b11f93659","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"e7f8e77542410","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Having another baby after a complicated birth experience"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"h3"},{"_key":"c8319c366fdb","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"3382effcb4560","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"If you’ve had a difficult or traumatic experience with a previous birth, it is understandable that you may have concerns about another pregnancy and birth. Talk to your doctor, midwife or obstetrician about how you’d like the delivery to go next time. And if you feel you are not ready or interested in another birth or baby after a traumatic or difficult birth, these feelings and/or decisions are valid too."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"background":null},{"_key":"d19a53f779fa","_type":"freeText","include":null,"eyebrow":null,"text":[{"_key":"19165ae409b4","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"8ec07370fd2f0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Resources"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"h3"},{"_key":"57deb63f60ca","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"67b6c5d63d730","_type":"span","marks":["strong"],"text":"Birth-related trauma support"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"a10133d2cff0","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"038bdffcd6f51","_type":"span","marks":["cdf362028199"],"text":"Birth Trauma – Australasian Birth Trauma Association"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[{"_key":"cdf362028199","_type":"link","href":"https://birthtrauma.org.au/","linkType":"external","url":"https://birthtrauma.org.au/"}],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"034ccff88ea7","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"dff283e84875","_type":"span","marks":["5fa61f4e8b2c"],"text":"Birth Trauma and recovery"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[{"_key":"5fa61f4e8b2c","_type":"link","blank":true,"document":{"_id":"bd12233c-0913-4a86-b9b3-4d2b0de539b2","_type":"article","_rev":"doviSoj42X0En17wZpdVUi","_createdAt":"2022-02-14T07:26:12Z","_updatedAt":"2024-07-09T04:14:25Z","categories":[{"_key":"02521a2b8879","_ref":"b84de418-c2a8-4c44-b6ef-628f8a1ce593","_type":"reference"},{"_key":"88bc5213c227","_ref":"c4172819-1756-470d-8628-b5ffa921681e","_type":"reference"}],"content":[{"_key":"e3d40dc9b1d6","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"4c766aadfac7","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"For most people, childbirth is a life-changing event which involves many emotions ranging from fear, pain, uncertainty and exhaustion through to excitement and joy."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"8f1ed75488b1","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"4bdd17f5f91a","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"However, it is common for parents who call PANDA’s Helpline, to tell us they had a complicated or even traumatic birthing experience."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"5ce18ae6566e","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"f8ee68dd169f","_type":"span","marks":["strong"],"text":"WE KNOW THAT UP TO 1 IN 3 MUMS EXPERIENCE THE BIRTH OF THEIR BABY AS TRAUMATIC."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"h4"},{"_key":"c79538c5797b","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"31cecd00ddf3","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"This trauma can result from what happens during labour and childbirth. It can also be a result of how you feel about your birthing experience."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"1d3e527df08d","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"f8bc31e1832b","_type":"span","marks":["strong"],"text":"During your birth, you may have:"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"13514c263eb2","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"bb4e96f70a7f","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Experienced pain or physical stress while giving birth."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"56617507eeab","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"d5f9ee56f001","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Experienced emotional distress while giving birth."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"5147844f77ec","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"0d095a76ba9f","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Required medical intervention (any actions taken by your medical team if your baby’s health or your own is at risk)."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"57a185bc44e2","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"9773aefe6e75","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Felt shocked and unprepared for these sensations, feelings and interventions."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"b06896abb2e9","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"ea72c95a110c","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Felt powerless, hurt, sad, abandoned, or frightened."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"91b920d0f442","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"2937e82cb1fc","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Felt disrespected, unheard, or disregarded during the birth by healthcare providers, partners, or support people."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"1a11f1b56d0e","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"f8d39ed50ccd","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Feared for the safety of yourself or your baby during the labour or birth. "}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"0664d0e71f08","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"65277c036cc2","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Felt confused about the birth process and what was happening."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"1c09cfa14b6d","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"9199fed7e370","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Had a birth plan, but your birth experience was different from the birth you expected or hoped for."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"e3f614168918","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"3fd30bdbad9e","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Had inadequate pain relief."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"a9f7d1ce34c9","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"d7db652fa6d6","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Experienced ongoing physical complications from birth."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"258beed10044","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"87b3cfe65816","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":""}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"282c8123fa61","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"aa881a90c50e","_type":"span","marks":["strong"],"text":"TRAUMA IS AN INDIVIDUAL EXPERIENCE"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"h3"},{"_key":"bd9ded95330d","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"2eed9fc0e167","_type":"span","marks":["strong"],"text":"Trauma is not always connected to physical pain, medical interventions or injury."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"dd876fb5d143","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"712f16d05a35","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"It’s common for parents and their partners to describe their labour as ‘normal’, even if they are left with confusing, ongoing symptoms such as anxiety or low mood. "}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"878520c0d565","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"d88da74ce3a7","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"On the other hand, not everyone who experiences a medical emergency or intervention experiences their birth as traumatic."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"70e786950f34","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"f0c3bf9643bb","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"We know the emotional impact of the birth process can sometimes be overlooked within the medical system. Some parents may feel that their physical health receives a lot of attention while their emotional wellbeing may not be addressed to the same degree. Many parents end up pushing difficult feelings aside."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"8bc4a7d2adb2","_type":"quote","quote":"Most of the medical and support staff we spoke to afterwards seemed to be focused on the medical side of the birth rather than how we viewed the experience. This just made us feel worse, and that we just needed to accept it in silence and move on."},{"_key":"1ec89a0cb223","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"7091ede12099","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"If you’re finding it difficult to process your birthing experience or the birth felt distressing, your feelings are valid."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"aa5b11ab49fe","_type":"quote","attribution":"Lisa","quote":"I had my first panic attack the second day after the birth. On paper, my birth experience probably looked rather normal. It was traumatic for me."},{"_key":"8965842c5710","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"a4420b3a0a63","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"The way you feel about the whole experience can deeply affect your emotional wellbeing and mental health, attachment and bonding with your baby, and how you feel about being a parent."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"2628b0ee3cbe","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"e47b8a67ac11","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":""}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"6c78d77b47ef","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"30ee080f8adc","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"BIRTH TRAUMA DOESN’T JUST AFFECT THE BIRTHING PARENT"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"h3"},{"_key":"a81936755782","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"8a9526c2c610","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Babies can also be impacted by a traumatic birth. The use of tools to assist the birth, or traumatic events can be distressing for the baby and leave physical marks or injury. "}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"91fa784783f8","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"5d68f3a45d0d","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"We also know that partners and other support people can feel traumatised by witnessing a traumatic birth. They may find it difficult to watch their loved one and their baby experiencing distress while birthing. They may feel powerless and unable or unsure of how to help their loved one. Partners also report feeling excluded from decision making and may feel overlooked or disregarded by medical and support teams. "}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"210c6c70c23a","_type":"quote","attribution":"Chris, PANDA Community Champion","quote":"When bub was born, it was two and a half hours before I even touched him. I still feel traumatised by that. I was watching this student midwife holding Oscar up and going “Ohhh, aren’t you beautiful?” She got to cuddle and play with my kid before I did, and she didn’t even think to include me."},{"_key":"263d4beeaea5","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"f7ce44144dfe","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Health care providers also commonly report the impacts of witnessing a traumatic birth on their emotional wellbeing. They may feel helpless or stressed by the situation. We encourage healthcare providers to discuss any distressing experiences with their supervisors. Health care providers can access free secondary consultation by calling the PANDA Helpline."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"46fd9e8bbc0b","_type":"button","link":{"_type":"link","blank":true,"document":{"_ref":"0768c995-5bff-42a9-b18c-811100b8c6d3","_type":"reference"},"linkType":"internal"},"style":"box","text":"Secondary consultation service"},{"_key":"3a2d9f9342ce","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"71f6e459b924","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":""}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"1fb22f744d9c","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"28af4d877b8d","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"WHAT DOES BIRTH TRAUMA LOOK/FEEL LIKE?"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"h3"},{"_key":"044862901acd","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"4e014c1b2bb7","_type":"span","marks":["strong"],"text":"Parents may experience birth trauma as:"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"fd04ef046573","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"9e5b1ec716bb","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Feelings of disappointment, shame, anger, or grief."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"7b70a214a0f6","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"c44846579224","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Lack of confidence in their ability to birth, and to parent."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"898b15859ae3","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"e080513ba00e","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"‘Hypervigilance’, or intense preoccupation with the baby’s health."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"f8c12ed5234e","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"5793b5c0612f","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Teary, low mood, tired. "},{"_key":"275980032861","_type":"span","marks":["ff847217bb65"],"text":"See signs of perinatal depression"},{"_key":"1a1a6a0ac67a","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[{"_key":"ff847217bb65","_type":"link","blank":true,"document":{"_ref":"9fd5ec14-7742-4bf6-94f4-236a64b2f52a","_type":"reference"},"linkType":"internal"}],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"776a94a38e58","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"07965cca2021","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Feelings of failure."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"0c57c8f1db8e","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"02c7ab8951b5","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Flashbacks to the birth."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"8c86effdb5c8","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"1fa6981a525c","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Avoiding people and places that remind them of the birth. This can include avoiding interacting with baby and missing postnatal healthcare appointments."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"82fd87d00dae","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"0347706cd720","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Brain fog or feeling unable to remember what happened during the birth."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"c0a7bbca3a52","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"35dd86c5b16a","_type":"span","marks":["1392bf6f4106"],"text":"Severe anxiety "},{"_key":"07055ff0699f","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"and "},{"_key":"95c8db168f28","_type":"span","marks":["d90522adf0b7"],"text":"panic attacks"},{"_key":"671dc08ebd26","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[{"_key":"d90522adf0b7","_type":"link","href":"https://panda.org.au/articles/perinatal-anxiety-and-depression-signs-and-symptoms","linkType":"internal"},{"_key":"1392bf6f4106","_type":"link","blank":true,"document":{"_ref":"7610207f-70bc-4aa2-b2b0-f73ac265a9cb","_type":"reference"},"linkType":"internal"}],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"0ef2c0682b0a","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"0ba6704c087c","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Physical pain and injury."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"c8b1341d1d56","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"87a4caaec3d0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Difficulty bonding with their baby."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"7e1bf95d24be","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"b09b35f937ad","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Increased use of"},{"_key":"0126cc32cfe4","_type":"span","marks":["fe7b2f8e5fdc"],"text":" alcohol and other drugs."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[{"_key":"fe7b2f8e5fdc","_type":"link","blank":true,"document":{"_ref":"54ced6f7-40a1-492f-96a2-5fb9222b9598","_type":"reference"},"linkType":"internal"}],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"78ccb12ce69e","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"4108892606ff","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Feeling overwhelmed while parenting, for example feeding, settling and sleep challenges."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"22a84974e4c6","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"f70b467d7ed3","_type":"span","marks":["6546239313b9"],"text":"Self-harm and suicide thoughts and behaviours"},{"_key":"3ae51f37a80a","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[{"_key":"6546239313b9","_type":"link","blank":true,"document":{"_ref":"b16b17d8-349b-4cb1-b010-cdb2789853d8","_type":"reference"},"linkType":"internal"}],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"4e1aeb4a038c","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"498ecc8c4d17","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":""}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"f6883dda7980","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"8f64cecb1e12","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"FACTORS THAT MAY INCREASE THE LIKELIHOOD OF EXPERIENCING BIRTH TRAUMA"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"h3"},{"_key":"5c3dfb2984de","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"908c1233c915","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Birth trauma can affect anyone. However, some personal life experiences and external factors may increase the likelihood of birth trauma occurring."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"7416868dcdd8","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"54b5f2b39151","_type":"span","marks":["strong"],"text":"These include:"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"a72573b6b2cc","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"1e7cda57e4c9","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Previous experience/s of birth trauma (birthing and non-birthing parents)."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"b6fddbc5c31d","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"6b56365ea1e4","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Social factors, including the level of support you receive from your partner, family and/or healthcare providers during labour."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"1e6a21618a35","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"2c5a6c216774","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Previous perinatal loss including stillbirth, miscarriage and death of a young baby - also known as neonatal death. It’s common for parents with a history of perinatal loss to experience increased anxiety about subsequent pregnancies and birth experiences too."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"0577d888b373","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"485079b94ca1","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Previous sexual abuse – some aspects of labour or giving birth may be traumatic for survivors."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"0baa6fffa121","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"a9a0a80aac10","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"History of trauma."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"abf97c6021ac","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"3a77223738b8","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Anxious tendencies prior to the pregnancy and birth."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"cdabac0a0f27","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"6f0009940b7c","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"These are just some of the major contributing factors. There may be others that impacted how you felt during and after your birth experience. Any fear you feel for yourself or your baby’s wellbeing, feeling dismissed or having your concerns minimised can be very traumatic."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"f19d484f5aa6","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"c1a65ed179e1","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":""}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"5056db00b8d8","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"f573f24add40","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"POST-TRAUMATIC STRESS DISORDER (PTSD)"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"h3"},{"_key":"e7b3b8544e4b","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"a09b6e8dd10c","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"A traumatic childbirth experience can sometimes trigger post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"f666b7626014","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"217e474bb4a7","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"If you find yourself experiencing high anxiety, stress, panic, sleep disturbances or flashbacks in response to triggers that remind you of the birth (e.g. newborn babies, hospitals, doctors, face masks) you may be experiencing symptoms of PTSD."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"87000397ddee","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"6a0189ac93f8","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Treating PTSD requires specialist mental health care. If you find yourself experiencing any difficult or distressing feelings, it’s important to seek advice from PANDA or a trusted healthcare provider as soon as possible."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"92790bb21b7d","_type":"quote","attribution":"Emma, PANDA Community Champion","quote":"I thought I was coping well for the first few days, but right before I was discharged, I started to become anxious, and developed insomnia. I struggled with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) from the experience with my first child."},{"_key":"660d33cb07cb","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"97cfa9786b32","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":""}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"datePublished":"2022-02-14","header":{"_type":"pageHeader","background":{"title":"orange60","value":"#FFA688"},"headline":"Birth trauma and recovery  ","image":{"_type":"imageWithAlt","alt":"Mum holding newborn","asset":{"_ref":"image-e3f2eeee43dd28db708f12a67872dd6dd461744d-2500x1667-jpg","_type":"reference"}},"text":[{"_key":"d21de4deaac0","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"acdd495ebba80","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"During pregnancy, it's common to worry about what our birth experience will be like. Many of us expect that birthing our babies will be hard but rewarding work. Yet very few of us feel prepared for complications in labour and childbirth."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},"modules":[{"_key":"0a5dc07503e5","_type":"faqBlock","noNumbers":true,"questions":[{"_key":"840f11060c77","_type":"faq","answer":[{"_key":"5e55d6ad757f","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"4a123a827aa70","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Write a letter to your health care providers or hospital. You may like to send this to the hospital for feedback or you may find just writing down your thoughts and feelings is helpful."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"ede8a828489d","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"279b44a0d3e50","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"You might find it helpful to keep a journal to work through your emotions and fears. Often this can lead to new insights or ease any anxiety."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"question":[{"_key":"5cac7c958df3","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"2ade8ec581970","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Writing about your experience"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},{"_key":"44ad6832a0d7","_type":"faq","answer":[{"_key":"135d552e297f","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"c04c049d9c700","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Some parents find it difficult to bond with their baby after experiencing a traumatic birth. You can find some ideas for connecting with your baby "},{"_key":"a167c5c864f0","_type":"span","marks":["bd9ce73c034b"],"text":"here"},{"_key":"f42966e0b3d6","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"."}],"markDefs":[{"_key":"bd9ce73c034b","_type":"link","blank":true,"document":{"_ref":"3dd5d15a-dcef-45b9-8e91-c6dab35b5c2f","_type":"reference"},"linkType":"internal"}],"style":"normal"}],"question":[{"_key":"577d98aa8bb8","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"f99b5205854d0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Supporting the bond with your baby"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},{"_key":"b3313b3f1f1f","_type":"faq","answer":[{"_key":"8d1d126d4d08","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"88cd8ed7e53a0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Sometimes you may have physical complications from the birth. It can be helpful to see a pelvic floor physiotherapist or a continence nurse to assess and help with any ongoing issues you may be having."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"question":[{"_key":"acaccdb34f32","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"def9963990510","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Managing physical complications"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},{"_key":"f6fdd4a90709","_type":"faq","answer":[{"_key":"ed689cc0eef5","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"ccd96814393c0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"You might find it helpful to discuss your experience with someone from the hospital, your doctor, midwife, doula, or obstetrician. Others might find it more helpful to discuss their experience with a counsellor. Or you might prefer to discuss your experience with a partner or loved one."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"f319da3941b3","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"1faae3ea97030","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Some parents may find it insightful to hear the birth story from their partners perspective. It can also lead to a greater appreciation of each other’s feelings."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"question":[{"_key":"92da451a2f7b","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"ad3a7feb13eb0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Talking about your experience"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},{"_key":"7047aeee2110","_type":"faq","answer":[{"_key":"5984b396394f","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"aef2c4805d8e0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Many parents have mixed feelings about their bodies after a traumatic birth. It can help to find ways to reconnect and care for your body. This might include a warm shower, bath, going for a walk, self or partner massage (hand, foot, face, or head are a great place to start)."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"question":[{"_key":"516bd14466ed","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"f83decbe6eda0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Reconnecting and caring for your body"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},{"_key":"9088063f9065","_type":"faq","answer":[{"_key":"ce3851690b00","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"d31a652e25580","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Unexpressed feelings such as anger or sadness can be uncomfortable. It can be helpful to feel, explore, and express your feelings."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"89f214db2e74","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"e864b087d5450","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"You might find it helpful to express your feelings creatively using art (drawing, painting, sculpting, writing a poem)."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"question":[{"_key":"576f950aa68b","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"20c7b55dbba70","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Express your feelings"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]}],"title":"HEALING AFTER BIRTH: WAYS TO LOOK AFTER YOURSELF "},{"_key":"55e6b20e0e87","_type":"freeText","text":[{"_key":"6b61152347e8","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"70d8345249580","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"SEEKING HELP"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"h3"},{"_key":"8508f5431ff6","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"07bc0f63ba1e0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"If your birth experience has caused you any distress and affected your mood or relationships – including your bond with your baby - PANDA can help. PANDA's Helpline has highly trained and caring counsellors and peer practitioners who can help you work through these challenges. The Helpline provides a safe and confidential space for you to speak openly and honestly about your thoughts and feelings about your birth. We’ll explore pathways to care together and support you in your birth trauma recovery journey."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"af7398465644","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"563182e872cf0","_type":"span","marks":["8cb7fefa1d1e"],"text":"Australasian Birth Trauma Association"},{"_key":"760b10eca66f","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":" and "},{"_key":"393f68b60b7c","_type":"span","marks":["ca84c9ea3159"],"text":"BirthTalk"},{"_key":"373b091797e6","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":" offer free resources to new parents, including evidence-based information on birth trauma recovery and healing."}],"markDefs":[{"_key":"8cb7fefa1d1e","_type":"link","blank":true,"linkType":"external","url":"https://birthtrauma.org.au/"},{"_key":"ca84c9ea3159","_type":"link","blank":true,"linkType":"external","url":"https://birthtalk.org/"}],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"59096185cc03","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"79686229e81c0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Resources"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"h4"},{"_key":"8eb47f03469f","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"70eb9500c42b0","_type":"span","marks":["strong"],"text":"Birth-related trauma support"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"7be4a7d750b0","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"3ca74a9980820","_type":"span","marks":["bfc01f878afd"],"text":"Australasian Birth Trauma Association"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[{"_key":"bfc01f878afd","_type":"link","blank":true,"linkType":"external","url":"https://birthtrauma.org.au/"}],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"aa6dc65c6657","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"59e668a6667b","_type":"span","marks":["ec60acd8e894"],"text":"BirthTalk"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[{"_key":"ec60acd8e894","_type":"link","blank":true,"linkType":"external","url":"https://birthtalk.org/"}],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"2097a571ce21","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"6e9810ebab4f0","_type":"span","marks":["6f7cf3a6385f"],"text":"Complicated Births"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[{"_key":"6f7cf3a6385f","_type":"link","blank":true,"document":{"_ref":"a938dce0-5aad-4627-9531-dcff4c2e7795","_type":"reference"},"linkType":"internal"}],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"87a3eed30da4","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"ebadaaa055370","_type":"span","marks":["strong"],"text":"Support after loss"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"5bbfa49b27c8","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"442225f9b3030","_type":"span","marks":["38f5366abb99"],"text":"Red Nose Australia"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[{"_key":"38f5366abb99","_type":"link","blank":true,"linkType":"external","url":"https://rednose.org.au/"}],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"d4b1c9cb719a","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"faeac6308f4b0","_type":"span","marks":["d50b4d9853d8"],"text":"Pregnancy and a new baby after loss"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[{"_key":"d50b4d9853d8","_type":"link","document":{"_ref":"d5ef2c38-21e7-4a5a-b3eb-a5d9dabf3fe8","_type":"reference"},"href":"http://pregnancy%20and%20a%20new%20baby%20after%20loss%20%7C%20panda/","linkType":"internal"}],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"5788d1117faa","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"1ab85d21b813","_type":"span","marks":["strong"],"text":"Looking after yourself"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"537b7e3f55b7","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"ef837bac5aec0","_type":"span","marks":["e3afb9015939"],"text":"Wellbeing and self care for expecting and new parents"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[{"_key":"e3afb9015939","_type":"link","document":{"_ref":"ea5008f7-a47e-4676-9ae0-c723bfd48898","_type":"reference"},"href":"https://panda.org.au/articles/wellbeing-and-self-care","linkType":"internal"}],"style":"normal"}]},{"_key":"c5fdb24ded0d","_type":"storyCollection","background":{"title":"orange60","value":"#FFA688"},"eyebrow":"Real stories","population":"select","posts":[{"_key":"5253bba93c61","_ref":"51f48b6c-2f06-4325-b5c5-d82d8e9ce089","_type":"reference"},{"_key":"dd46a2f019d1","_ref":"2c56f570-e4a4-4ef3-abf3-4b9e7fbed2b0","_type":"reference"},{"_key":"c6e52a2a4a10","_ref":"825c2df8-9fb1-424f-a5e5-21991220683d","_type":"reference"}],"storyType":"story"},{"_key":"2b43728459da","_type":"articleCollection","background":{"title":"peach80","value":"#FFD29D"},"eyebrow":"Articles","population":"select","posts":[{"_key":"e7cb988247bf","_ref":"a938dce0-5aad-4627-9531-dcff4c2e7795","_type":"reference"},{"_key":"a1eec71ba3fb","_ref":"e3e4eb2d-29b8-4375-982d-1acc2d22b0c2","_type":"reference"},{"_key":"90f1f22c2362","_ref":"27939a59-1611-449d-8953-b196b2dbdc3b","_type":"reference"},{"_key":"f937c61e10c7","_ref":"3dd5d15a-dcef-45b9-8e91-c6dab35b5c2f","_type":"reference"}],"title":"Helpful Information"},{"_key":"c9b490f63f43","_type":"checklist","field":"content"},{"_key":"1e7946a927c9","_type":"helpLine","field":"content"}],"relatedArticles":[],"seo":{"_type":"seo","metaDescription":"While many pregnant women and their partners know birthing their baby will be hard work, very few expect labour and childbirth could be complicated.","socialImage":{"_type":"image","asset":{"_ref":"image-3d2a747931e00c9fbe05b67be9578242371435e1-1200x630-jpg","_type":"reference"}}},"showFeedbackForm":true,"sidebarPosts":[{"_key":"f34a2d732a67","_ref":"310776fc-166b-416c-8958-8fbbf1b695b2","_type":"reference"},{"_key":"64eb5e4893b2","_ref":"a938dce0-5aad-4627-9531-dcff4c2e7795","_type":"reference"}],"sidebarTitle":"Helpful Information","slug":{"_type":"slug","current":"childbirth-trauma-and-recovery"},"tags":[{"_key":"130a3ac8ad2a","_ref":"2df7e53e-9ef7-4ed8-aabe-1623b28de6ec","_type":"reference"},{"_key":"aa24de89a3e2","_ref":"49993bd9-e417-4743-b155-591d0a496a77","_type":"reference"},{"_key":"d8c11938689c","_ref":"98c6d929-2d8d-4cbb-9cfe-13d53cdcb7ad","_type":"reference"}],"title":"Birth trauma and recovery ","id":"-5e85645d-d43d-5678-8b07-c75ec22bf85a","children":[],"internal":{"type":"SanityArticle","contentDigest":"83436718fd2b74531c52d13fa4f623bd","owner":"gatsby-source-sanity","counter":196},"parent":null,"__gatsby_resolved":{"slug":{"current":"childbirth-trauma-and-recovery"}}},"linkType":"internal"}],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"9f496deacd98","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"33b37b9889b20","_type":"span","marks":["strong"],"text":"Support after loss"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"a7926be3cacc","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"d1ed81d657e80","_type":"span","marks":["a58229eb925c"],"text":"Home | Red Nose Australia"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[{"_key":"a58229eb925c","_type":"link","blank":true,"linkType":"external","url":"https://rednose.org.au/"}],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"5a474ae1907f","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"ddbb9b86b8870","_type":"span","marks":["1ab9d0b5035a"],"text":"Pregnancy and a new baby after loss"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[{"_key":"1ab9d0b5035a","_type":"link","document":{"_id":"d5ef2c38-21e7-4a5a-b3eb-a5d9dabf3fe8","_type":"article","_rev":"b2NLSlubeLq6eTXi7g3Ba5","_createdAt":"2023-07-18T04:25:59Z","_updatedAt":"2024-01-08T05:29:25Z","categories":[{"_key":"d7bc5ff6b57a","_ref":"a4331950-09cf-4e89-9803-5127aa533bc7","_type":"reference"}],"content":[{"_key":"9829df555996","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"0cb473eca7ac0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"If you’ve experienced a miscarriage, stillbirth or death of a baby or child, you’ve experienced the deepest grief imaginable. Deciding to try for another baby or confirmation of a new pregnancy can stir up strong feelings for bereaved parents."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"28eb39c039c4","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"6c0c0ccc16540","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"The decision to try again is deeply personal, and everyone approaches it differently. Some parents prefer to wait, while others choose to try for another baby immediately. Others decide they don't want to try again at all. There's no wrong decision, only the choice that feels right for you and your family."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"545023e86298","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"e1440c65ca03","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Know that support is available, so you don’t have to manage it all alone.."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"datePublished":"2023-07-18","header":{"_type":"pageHeader","background":{"title":"teal100","value":"#236D6D"},"headline":"Pregnancy and a new baby after loss","image":{"_type":"imageWithAlt","alt":"Pregnant mother looking down and uneasy","asset":{"_ref":"image-802d5985136bf045b09fed3c8701eb1a5b4f8837-3334x3334-png","_type":"reference"}},"text":[{"_key":"6a47a8537a25","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"702ae48fbbc30","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Pregnancy after loss can feel lonely and isolating, but there are many specialist services available if you need support."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},"modules":[{"_key":"7d5fc2c095f5","_type":"faqBlock","noNumbers":true,"questions":[{"_key":"574742890cf6","_type":"faq","answer":[{"_key":"ff4436d725b5","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"783baad9fd950","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Sometimes it can feel like there’s pressure on you to move on, but healing takes time, and there is no right or wrong way to experience loss. Grief can feel like a strong current, sometimes pulling you to uncomfortable or scary water, but learning to move with your emotions rather than fighting against them can allow you to better navigate them."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"d00e6d82ebc9","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"0463c52699340","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"It's important to be kind and compassionate with yourself, giving space to all the thoughts and feelings that come up during pregnancy and after you have your baby. You could try setting aside some time each day to reflect on everything you’re feeling."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"a43303dd342d","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"113049e8f9150","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Some parents find it helpful to schedule time alone or with a support person to talk about the baby they lost, and how it'simpacting their pregnancy or parenthood experience. This could be a set time you put aside with your partner each day or week, providing structure and boundaries for intense emotions to be expressed without feeling overwhelmed."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"1c4254ffa5b2","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"9f8239e1b5120","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"If you named your baby and you feel comfortable doing so, use their name in conversation. Doing this can help you feel more connected to your baby, and to keep their memory alive. Being able to talk openly about your baby may also help you process the grief of losing them, while honouring their little life."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"b5a8deb345d9","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"0541e1aefea40","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"While stillbirth and miscarriage are common, many parents find that it's difficult to talk about it with anyone who hasn't experienced it. If you share your experience with someone, and they react in an unexpected or unhelpful way it's important to know that this isn't a reflection on you, your status as a parent or your relationship with your baby. It'sa good idea to find people to talk to who make you feel safe, heard and supported."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"325f97a60d44","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"0a7fa063ce5d0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Pregnancy after loss can feel lonely and isolating, but there are many specialist services available if you need support."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"b16c487a0304","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"a805dcb3b9930","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"It may help to talk to someone who isn’t directly affected by your loss like a perinatal grief counsellor, or services like PANDA and Red Nose. These supports often help parents manage conflicting feelings about pregnancy after loss, and can provide a safe, private space for you to share your experience."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"question":[{"_key":"3aeab909a541","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"531c727613b8","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Self-care after a pregnancy loss"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},{"_key":"914c257a0d5b","_type":"faq","answer":[{"_key":"1d1be17cbc10","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"cafa92971d160","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Choosing to plan for another baby is a deeply personal decision. Only you know what’s best for yourself and your family. It’s normal to think and feel unsure, or just not ready for another pregnancy – yet also common to want to conceive again as soon as possible. You may want to try again but your partner needs more time to grieve, or they feel undecided in other ways."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"f0adabb49de3","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"8df78293769c0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"There may never be a ‘right’ time for you to plan another pregnancy, or your next pregnancy may be unplanned and happening without a conscious choice from either you or your partner."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"862f7a2759db","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"b6ddc335dd4e0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"If you’re feeling confused or unsure, it may help to chat with a counsellor about your feelings and options."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"c829daf6a107","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"f933e427ae030","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"If you do decide to try for another baby, it’s natural to feel anxious and worried about what might happen. It’s common to feel scared that this baby may die too, and to have difficulty bonding with your new baby during pregnancy. You may experience feelings of guilt about your decision to plan another pregnancy, and worry that having a new baby will seem like you’re replacing or forgetting your child that died., or that people might forget your other baby. It might be hard to imagine what the future looks like. Remember that all your feelings are valid, and you don’t need to justify them to anyone."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"71ea1d489448","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"c51c9e020abf0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Pregnancy can be challenging for many parents, but this can be magnified when you’ve already experienced the loss of a baby. When you’re preparing for another pregnancy, it’s important to continue making a conscious effort to look after yourself and each other. This includes your mental, emotional, physical and social wellbeing."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"51b5a53807f0","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"2c03284f2beb0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"A full-term pregnancy can seem like a lifetime, so it can help to set the smaller milestones to focus on; and to celebrate other happy occasions that aren’t related to your pregnancy. Try to spend time with your family and friends and do things that you really enjoy."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"question":[{"_key":"0d40680c93ea","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"d57386577dac","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Preparing for pregnancy"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},{"_key":"8e3866c140d4","_type":"faq","answer":[{"_key":"905abcc1489f","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"a0ad39ea13c00","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"A new pregnancy may generate discussion about your previous pregnancy loss. Prepare yourself to have those conversations with friends, family, and your other children (if you have them). The opposite can also happen – you may experience an upsurge of grief for your baby who died yet feel that your loved ones are behaving as though your previous pregnancy didn’t happen, or that you’ve “moved on” with your new pregnancy."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"e09ca1753373","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"1c58cbdbc9bb0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"It can be hard to manage the feeling that something might go wrong when you have a very real experience of the worst happening to you. It’s common to experience intrusive thoughts of what happened then, and what you fear may happen again. It’s important that you have space to express and process these thoughts and feelings. It’s just as important that you have opportunities to enjoy your pregnancy as much as possible."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"a73e37bf5917","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"c7fa5f79dc190","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Family and friends may offer their love, advice, and support, but they might not fully understand the range of emotions you’re experiencing. If you’re having trouble explaining your mixed feelings, you can talk to a PANDA counsellor or someone from Red Nose Australia. It can also be helpful to set small milestones and spend time with your loved ones and doing things that you enjoy."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"question":[{"_key":"6f1ff73b533d","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"bdc697fbce58","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Talking to your family and loved ones"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},{"_key":"6c988e615036","_type":"faq","answer":[{"_key":"5798eeed6ca2","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"94d800a62f820","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"If you experienced a loss or multiple losses, you may feel a mix of complex emotions when you have your baby. These mixed emotions are normal but may be confusing - for you, and for people around you.who haven’t experienced losses."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"6a18bca4d39e","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"2930dc15e0d3","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"It’s okay to give yourself time and space to feel everything, and know these emotions may take some time to process."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"question":[{"_key":"95c4dfa00ac1","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"debef430c6be","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"When baby arrives"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]}]},{"_key":"0084f8e28a0d","_type":"quote","attribution":"Christina, Red Nose Australia advocate ","quote":"I couldn’t stop crying when I held Amelia for the first time. I had so much joy for her birth, but also acute grief at her sister’s death. In a way, I think I was saying goodbye. I felt guilty and uplifted at the same time."},{"_key":"28325fd8194d","_type":"freeText","eyebrow":"Finding the right support","text":[{"_key":"46c12594734a","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"33b887af851f","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Where to get support"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"h4"},{"_key":"6436ed2e534a","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"5a093ed6ea9a0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Many parents find it helpful to discuss their own situation and feelings about another pregnancy. This may be with a hospital social worker, a grief counsellor or a counselling service such as PANDA or "},{"_key":"b2f06a22e474","_type":"span","marks":["7bb78a3fd2fd"],"text":"Red Nose"},{"_key":"d3f9d16ee1a8","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"."}],"markDefs":[{"_key":"7bb78a3fd2fd","_type":"link","blank":true,"linkType":"external","url":"https://rednosegriefandloss.org.au/"}],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"21b53af4782e","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"50b32c7410630","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Talking with other parents who have experienced pregnancy loss can also be helpful. "},{"_key":"a200ff7d9041","_type":"span","marks":["9677221a4131"],"text":"Red Nose"},{"_key":"ffbef559571d","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":" offers online and group support services, and PANDA provides peer support. Speaking to someone who has had a similar experience can be very reassuring and affirming.\n\n"},{"_key":"c3229ff9e1d4","_type":"span","marks":["strong"],"text":"Other services that can support you: "}],"markDefs":[{"_key":"9677221a4131","_type":"link","blank":true,"linkType":"external","url":"https://rednosegriefandloss.org.au/"}],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"992c0a6d3f4d","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"a6384618ec7f","_type":"span","marks":["331919dd6171"],"text":"Red Nose Grief and Loss"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[{"_key":"331919dd6171","_type":"link","blank":true,"linkType":"external","url":"https://rednosegriefandloss.org.au/"}],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"4719ed928dc5","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"8fd1b2da3eae","_type":"span","marks":["ebff44505ad0"],"text":"Pink Elephants Support network "}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[{"_key":"ebff44505ad0","_type":"link","blank":true,"linkType":"external","url":"https://www.pinkelephants.org.au/page/65/find-support"}],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"23c57bf384ae","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"97bd3c332578","_type":"span","marks":["e6d7018b84c5"],"text":"Stilbirth Foundation Australia"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[{"_key":"e6d7018b84c5","_type":"link","blank":true,"linkType":"external","url":"https://stillbirthfoundation.org.au/"}],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"95ab5acb5eab","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"d96fe640fbcc","_type":"span","marks":["164bc9690c2b"],"text":"The Perinatal Loss Centre"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[{"_key":"164bc9690c2b","_type":"link","blank":true,"linkType":"external","url":"https://www.theperinatallosscentre.com.au/"}],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"9af95479206c","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"a3c54f3bba950","_type":"span","marks":["em"],"text":"This article is written in collaboration with "},{"_key":"a3c54f3bba951","_type":"span","marks":["92be821fb418","em"],"text":"Red Nose Australia"},{"_key":"a3c54f3bba952","_type":"span","marks":["em"],"text":", Australia’s leading authority on safe sleep and safer pregnancy advice, and bereavement support for anyone affected by the death of a baby or child."}],"markDefs":[{"_key":"92be821fb418","_type":"link","href":"https://rednose.org.au/","linkType":"external","url":"https://rednose.org.au/page/grief-and-loss-support-services"}],"style":"normal"}]},{"_key":"fb9d5e072be4","_type":"helpLine","field":"content"}],"relatedArticles":[{"_key":"14e490c2411e","_ref":"310776fc-166b-416c-8958-8fbbf1b695b2","_type":"reference"},{"_key":"7ea7091772c2","_ref":"27939a59-1611-449d-8953-b196b2dbdc3b","_type":"reference"},{"_key":"ea4c989406ad","_ref":"7c8c4e42-8ab9-40cd-b9f4-d6009eb8dd8e","_type":"reference"}],"seo":{"_type":"seo","metaDescription":"Deciding to try for another baby or confirmation of a new pregnancy can stir up strong feelings for bereaved parents.","socialImage":{"_type":"image","asset":{"_ref":"image-d12a5f088b5a88ef6267b3cfd66ca863d2af4313-1200x630-png","_type":"reference"}}},"showFeedbackForm":true,"sidebarPosts":[{"_key":"bf2e3304834e","_ref":"09a8636c-b6c5-4b7d-ac91-a3c362fe67e1","_type":"reference"}],"sidebarTitle":"Helpful Information","slug":{"_type":"slug","current":"pregnancy-and-a-new-baby-after-loss"},"tags":[{"_key":"f7a0532df57e","_ref":"2df7e53e-9ef7-4ed8-aabe-1623b28de6ec","_type":"reference"},{"_key":"e0c051e914dd","_ref":"86acc926-5328-468e-8bdd-8292f51fa04e","_type":"reference"}],"title":"Pregnancy and a new baby after loss","id":"-f63002b6-489c-56ca-90bd-8a839875d45e","children":[],"internal":{"type":"SanityArticle","contentDigest":"5bc4c86d3514e6026edcf74a05699d21","owner":"gatsby-source-sanity","counter":163},"parent":null,"__gatsby_resolved":{"slug":{"current":"pregnancy-and-a-new-baby-after-loss"}}},"href":"http://pregnancy%20and%20a%20new%20baby%20after%20loss%20%7C%20panda/","linkType":"internal"}],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"43bc26308697","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"d0bab5e0d807","_type":"span","marks":["strong"],"text":"Looking after yourself"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"78f7e0351039","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"fa48cb17a12c0","_type":"span","marks":["9689f08aaf29"],"text":"Wellbeing and self care for expecting and new parent"},{"_key":"bbee8136866f","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"s"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[{"_key":"9689f08aaf29","_type":"link","document":{"_id":"ea5008f7-a47e-4676-9ae0-c723bfd48898","_type":"article","_rev":"OiBIvEn2E80LUXPpAoY7qP","_createdAt":"2022-02-24T04:44:04Z","_updatedAt":"2024-01-08T05:16:33Z","categories":[{"_key":"ea97e0234c2e","_ref":"b84de418-c2a8-4c44-b6ef-628f8a1ce593","_type":"reference"},{"_key":"51f03502c679","_ref":"c4172819-1756-470d-8628-b5ffa921681e","_type":"reference"},{"_key":"81748c22044b","_ref":"a4331950-09cf-4e89-9803-5127aa533bc7","_type":"reference"}],"content":[{"_key":"2ff6173fb2cf","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"abaf635405900","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Having a baby is life-changing. It can deliver a lot of love, joy and fulfilment but it can also create demands and responsibilities that feel relentless, difficult and scary. "}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"035ea7aaf907","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"5f3bc01900f9","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Sometimes, parents have difficulty adjusting to the many physical, emotional, psychological and social challenges of parenting."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"175c85af0455","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"412e30e8760c","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"On the helpline, we hear from parents who are consumed by caring for their children and doing a wonderful job of it. But self-care has become a low priority."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"daab50e9c843","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"b2fe057b1a14","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"We know that the stress, interrupted sleep and 24-hour demands can take their toll. But they become more manageable when we are able to care for and nurture ourselves too. "}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"12e6904873f2","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"8bf2c5852ad7","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Some aspects of self-care are covered here, including sleep, diet, exercise, time out and social supports."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"datePublished":"2022-02-24","header":{"_type":"pageHeader","headline":"Wellbeing and self-care ","image":{"_type":"imageWithAlt","alt":"Mum holding baby up and kissing on the cheek","asset":{"_ref":"image-31544bad9e7c38876638fe53c51e77cf89d91356-2500x1800-jpg","_type":"reference"}},"text":[{"_key":"6a7cc988da75","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"a6fceda6aee2","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Self-care tips for expecting and new parents"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},"modules":[{"_key":"46b374abde4e","_type":"faqBlock","noNumbers":true,"questions":[{"_key":"9f0e23764221","_type":"faq","answer":[{"_key":"ebe90338ea1c","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"fc6639335d4f0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"For many parents, interrupted sleep can take a mental, physical and emotional toll. Some general rules for sleep hygiene include:"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"ed70065c932c","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"10f07f16a50e0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Go to bed at the same time each day"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"3e327e6cc907","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"f305d6b6d9eb0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Avoid exercise before bed"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"20e592706620","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"2a68262df64d0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Make the bedroom as restful an environment as possible"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"979019a0383f","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"6bea81ed017a0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Avoid screentime or other stimulating activities just before bed"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"7f707b5d76e1","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"f90bbacca5290","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Avoid caffeine and other stimulants in the evening"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"6d138ce66aaf","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"7e5722507d420","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Try a warm bath or shower two hours before bed to regulate your body temperature for sleep"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"732c5b82eed9","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"051f5bd787570","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Avoid a nap in the evening"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"9b25598eed8b","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"a0989ebcf1350","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"If you can’t sleep, get up and do something quiet in another room."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"e16b716d4d2d","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"c4444ab7a4250","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Quick naps can improve your alertness and help in decision-making, creativity and sensory perception. Short naps, such as 20 minutes, are less likely to disrupt your sleep at night."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"question":[{"_key":"7a65add50199","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"3e95dffc35e9","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Sleep"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},{"_key":"53c349786f11","_type":"faq","answer":[{"_key":"8cff2cdf45d1","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"e2563177a7e40","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Some parents find themselves snacking on convenience food. We know that setting realistic goals helps. Healthy, home-cooked food for every meal may not be an achievable goal so set goals for your family that are manageable and allow for something easier, such as eggs on toast or toasted sandwiches, on difficult days."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"question":[{"_key":"f70e86041210","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"a3688b12848b","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Eating"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},{"_key":"60632704539c","_type":"faq","answer":[{"_key":"ebf7dbb657b8","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"2d4fd5d809920","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"For some people, regular physical exercise is highly beneficial. We know that it can increase serotonin levels - a hormone that contributes to general happiness and wellbeing. We also know that getting out of the house into fresh air and sunshine can lift mood and boost vitamin D."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"57fa70d82e76","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"07b133ecbcca0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"However, setting achievable goals is important. These goals depend on personal circumstances, previous exercise history and physical recovery from birth."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"b73d613cb4c2","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"e4d345e507600","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"It can be helpful to schedule in exercise time. When your baby is small, this could be as simple as aiming for a short walk in the morning with the baby in the pram.\n"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"68b1f82210fa","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"c3d0287d70200","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"For some mums, childbirth impacts on pelvic floor function. Physiotherapists can help with assessment, treatment and strengthening exercises if this is an issue. If you have any concerns about your physical recovery, it is important to consult a doctor before you undertake any strenuous exercise after birth."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"b462bb8e8b9e","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"954437711ace0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Exercise may also mean something gentler to some people, such as breathing exercises, meditation or a yoga class. Some people find these beneficial."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"065f1477f1ac","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"ce54fc054faf0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Many websites and phone apps provide short guided meditations or relaxation exercises, some specifically for new parents."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"question":[{"_key":"176a1d21f62c","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"d612ed72f8cb","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Exercise and getting outdoors"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},{"_key":"e1ad1a4b940c","_type":"faq","answer":[{"_key":"01c7bb978397","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"df28c6638ab70","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Being at home with a baby after years of being in a busy workplace can be an isolating experience for some parents. New and existing social networks can help you feel connected to other adults."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"6188e2cf7e28","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"2d53049ae4860","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"New mothers’ groups and playgroups are one avenue. Others include free activities, such as story time at the local library, while other people seek connection through online groups, such as supportive Facebook pages."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"9ba749dc6df1","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"6b51824391920","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"If you are struggling with postnatal mental health issues, there might be a supported playgroup you may be able to attend in your area. These are often run by a health worker or social worker and attended by other parents who have been struggling."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"question":[{"_key":"d58ff8ad22a1","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"cfbdd6eb1bf80","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Social network"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},{"_key":"8a3ae7590dcd","_type":"faq","answer":[{"_key":"c4d3211f9ca7","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"086fa755fef90","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Time out means different things to everyone. But in general, it is important that parents who are primary carers have a break from the caring role at times. We speak to many parents who experience barriers to this. Sometimes the barrier is a time constraint, sometimes it is driven by a parent feeling guilty or feeling like they shouldn’t need time out from their family."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"6e22834d258f","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"a012a00aefc60","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Some families find the best way to create time out is to structure it i.e. a set time or activity each week for the primary carer. The additional benefit is that the other parent or carer gets one-on-one time with the baby or child, which can also help with their bonding and confidence. Generally, a parent needing time to themselves gets most benefit if the rest of the family is out of the house, or if the parent can go out themselves.\n"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"b7990a68d0da","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"053a0021b20a0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Some ideas for nurturing time out are:"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"56ba9b987f54","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"64c70fa975640","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"A class or activity outside the home"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"8bcc751f8c62","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"aa4760525cad0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Engaging in a hobby/craft that is enjoyable"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"7731aa4331e3","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"360ea11afa620","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Taking a relaxing bath"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"235b3796281e","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"fd454c6b5eb40","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Going for a walk"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"1cc20204f970","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"f96d16bcdf5f0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Going shopping"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"cb1663bd9f79","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"4909c02fc3b10","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Listening to music"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"1b0103c0016f","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"bcfbf4eaf37c0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Reading a book/magazine"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"bd98f5d98f8b","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"e02c1d556e0d0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Watching a movie"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"question":[{"_key":"a209cb3d4bac","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"5cfb45060b4d","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Time out"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},{"_key":"fc0cd9abb7f7","_type":"faq","answer":[{"_key":"83a04d5277f8","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"4a195952340b0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"For parents, recognising that you are struggling is the first step. For some, this may manifest as obvious symptoms of anxiety, depression or other issues such as obsessive compulsive disorder. For others, it may be more subtle, just a sense of not quite coping, feeling low in energy or not feeling yourself."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"ba5c7a6a6d93","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"9841339a985a0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Callers to the helpline often comment on their relief at being able to talk about what is on their mind. For some people, it is helpful to talk to family or friends. But often, for varied reasons, this is not helpful or possible."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"791773a70081","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"8974e71dfbbb0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Discussing your concerns with a mental health professional or a helpline such as PANDA is a good option in these cases. It is helpful, if possible, to build a positive relationship with a local doctor. New parents with babies often visit their doctor for the baby’s sake but we encourage callers to connect for their own sake too. Doctors are often the first point of professional contact for mental health concerns."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"f60234fafa5f","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"2ac171c3e4020","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Self-care is partly about reaching out to others when we need it. There are other options for professional support beyond a doctor – facilitated playgroups, psychologists and counsellors – that your doctor or PANDA can help you access."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"question":[{"_key":"f9a7f93091c8","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"2751bf6aec65","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Mental health / professional support"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]}]},{"_key":"e6dd3b47399d","_type":"checklist","field":"content"},{"_key":"670729d1b46d","_type":"fileCollection","files":[{"_key":"c222e18d51a7","_type":"download","background":{"title":"brightTeal20","value":"#E1F9F7"},"cta":"Download PDF","file":{"_type":"file","asset":{"_ref":"file-521b1dd9bb1a75772cd48611e6017e18d67d6bbb-pdf","_type":"reference"}},"title":"Wellbeing and self care factsheet"}]}],"relatedArticles":[{"_key":"587f6b60ce6a","_ref":"3dd5d15a-dcef-45b9-8e91-c6dab35b5c2f","_type":"reference"},{"_key":"8d78bc173209","_ref":"9b76e69e-6f98-4dcc-afba-4d1c93912f37","_type":"reference"},{"_key":"9944eb31b1a5","_ref":"310776fc-166b-416c-8958-8fbbf1b695b2","_type":"reference"}],"seo":{"_type":"seo","metaDescription":"Stress, interrupted sleep and 24-hour demands can take their toll. But they become more manageable when we are able to care for and nurture ourselves too.","metaTitle":"Wellbeing and self care for expecting and new parents","socialImage":{"_type":"image","asset":{"_ref":"image-fb293ea1f9e0854c4fb1feb7b1ee57bc9caae1da-1200x630-png","_type":"reference"}}},"showFeedbackForm":true,"sidebarPosts":[{"_key":"183830e529d9","_ref":"3e9170da-2e0e-427f-a832-e5b31624df14","_type":"reference"}],"sidebarTitle":"Helpful Information","slug":{"_type":"slug","current":"wellbeing-and-self-care"},"tags":[{"_key":"a0025bea6694","_ref":"93c6a6d9-0f5a-45ab-a76e-08706724c63d","_type":"reference"}],"title":"Wellbeing and self care","id":"-3e6ee661-411f-5a64-8cfd-ab7d430f3e5d","children":[],"internal":{"type":"SanityArticle","contentDigest":"f85c541efa3a05a2b98e8bc7ca90e22a","owner":"gatsby-source-sanity","counter":90},"parent":null,"__gatsby_resolved":{"slug":{"current":"wellbeing-and-self-care"}}},"href":"https://panda.org.au/articles/wellbeing-and-self-care","linkType":"internal"}],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"add273df498c","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"7d1bc726c36c0","_type":"span","marks":["d0aa286e705a"],"text":"Managing sensory overload"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[{"_key":"d0aa286e705a","_type":"link","document":{"_id":"1e6f55bf-e3c6-4a10-b36d-b4f984a2d1f0","_type":"article","_rev":"GtLcLPqo6O73Nid9aO3Yak","_createdAt":"2024-04-08T05:20:57Z","_updatedAt":"2024-04-08T06:27:53Z","categories":[{"_key":"0d9c3de1570e","_ref":"b84de418-c2a8-4c44-b6ef-628f8a1ce593","_type":"reference"},{"_key":"48b996110173","_ref":"a4331950-09cf-4e89-9803-5127aa533bc7","_type":"reference"},{"_key":"4b4982f0b8d0","_ref":"c4172819-1756-470d-8628-b5ffa921681e","_type":"reference"}],"content":[{"_key":"a68b881380d4","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"57330ad331790","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Overwhelmed. Overstimulated. Touched out. Distracted and agitated. Senses can feel so raw sometimes – like an exposed nerve. You might feel like you want to:"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"b1e84d969ddf","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"63683862dbcf0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Explode in anger"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"6758b3499a6a","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"150c77e828770","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Freeze, or run away and hide "}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"3cf1189ad84e","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"3e90595a53e00","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Scream and cry"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"b0ffd5c830b8","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"4ab01c2386440","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Disconnect and withdraw from your thoughts, feelings and stressful situations"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"acf374a2e37f","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"9f59df22d8cc0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"If you are neurodiverse, you have a brain that processes and reacts to sensory information from your environment differently from the brains of people who are not neurodivergent (also called neurotypical)."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"ec85be3b6ee5","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"4fbe46fc4a530","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"In our busy, chaotic world it can be hard to support our own wellbeing and sensory support needs. When you’re pregnant or caring for a baby, looking after yourself and your bub may feel extra tricky."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"a7d7de19223d","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"999977584ac00","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"We’ve put together this guide for you and other neurodiverse parents in our community, so you can build up a toolkit of useful self-soothing skills for all those times when everything feels too much."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"9c22bf31bc92","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"57f9e79f59500","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"You may find these sensory strategies helpful if you identify as neurodivergent or have strong sensory preferences."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"h4"},{"_key":"19b21859bb26","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"7edc6f11d5d30","_type":"span","marks":["strong"],"text":"This includes identifying with - or having a diagnosis of:"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"37a604b01ba3","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"f5f61038e6c00","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Autism"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"6d60b9e3b4fa","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"1659162ad7040","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADD/ADHD)"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"9568b869348f","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"5d8e1875f41f0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Tourette’s syndrome"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"99e385be4fee","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"9becf0d620360","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Sensory processing disorder"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"a366e7a18d1a","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"d68d326f8a900","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Learning difficulties like dyslexia"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"951389d212d4","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"ed44459f21a80","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Mental health conditions like bipolar, post-traumatic stress, "},{"_key":"ed44459f21a81","_type":"span","marks":["6568cd6969b3"],"text":"obsessive-compulsive disorder"},{"_key":"4441d9530544","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":" or social anxiety"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[{"_key":"6568cd6969b3","_type":"link","document":{"_ref":"9276d5c3-5cfb-4745-b6dc-e6a4d308da2c","_type":"reference"},"href":"https://panda.org.au/articles/what-is-perinatal-obsessive-compulsive-disorder-ocd/","linkType":"internal"}],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"eee86a271ca4","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"377adb2ca75d0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Acquired neurodivergent conditions like traumatic brain injury, multiple sclerosis, epilepsy and post-stroke difficulties."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"a92c582a33e4","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"6c086d3591b60","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"You don’t need a diagnosed neurodivergent condition to use these skills – this guide is for anyone who struggles with sensory overload while pregnant or parenting."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"h5"},{"_key":"85d5cd95689b","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"7a9a01a235b4","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":""}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"339a89f0c00f","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"dcf5e182eac60","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Know how to tell when you’re becoming overwhelmed"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"h3"},{"_key":"9dc70d66f927","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"aa75ad3acc310","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Sensory overload happens when your brain is receiving more information from your environment than it’s able to process at once. This information can come in the form of smells, light, colour, sound and movement."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"19a42266710e","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"df13e083b1990","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"By identifying the signs that you are feeling overloaded, you’ve got a better chance of managing your responses to any stressful situation:"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"c256095cdf0f","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"7ce853c3bb7c0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Feeling suddenly attacked or assaulted by your senses."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"e12a5d0d0d60","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"e504cf0958d00","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Intense urge to put as much distance between you and the source of stress (crowd, baby crying) as possible."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"61a0c73d66b8","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"7265360190840","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Feelings of anxiety, panic."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"f419a7383043","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"19872f2e72100","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Feeling angry, irritable and agitated."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"e113cbf62f3a","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"129cdb6f8a5b0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Breathing problems, chest pain."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"ccb475c37322","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"4ecf41347d040","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Feeling like there’s a crushing weight bearing down on you, muscle tension."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"7a15795b7ace","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"3e88f2d313b20","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Stomach cramps, nausea, dizzy feeling."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"3b03909b02e3","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"aa92cc22d9010","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Brain ‘fog’, unable to gather your thoughts."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"44e1f1793201","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"4ef1108d5d720","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Feeling like you’ve been zapped by an electrical current."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"8fff50adf331","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"f475638f7cc40","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Headache, migraine."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"96563bd7d3a2","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"7177017475f30","_type":"span","marks":["strong"],"text":"Common perinatal reasons for sensory overload include most daily tasks of parenthood – it’s an intense time of life."},{"_key":"7f709c027f21","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":" Physical changes in pregnancy including altered sight, hearing and tastebuds, healthcare appointments and being in clinical settings, giving birth, infant feeding, settling and soothing can all leave us feeling overstimulated."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"872cadd7f2d8","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"ea4d863240ee","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":""}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"datePublished":"2024-04-08","header":{"_type":"pageHeader","background":{"title":"brightTeal60","value":"#86DECF"},"headline":"Neurodiverse parents: Managing sensory overload ","image":{"_type":"imageWithAlt","asset":{"_ref":"image-ab0c28c3bbee5ed0f4e2b251d029a0a525e4f66c-6024x4024-jpg","_type":"reference"}},"text":[{"_key":"4aecdd7595b0","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"03435bc138e1","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"A toolkit of useful self-soothing skills for all those times when everything feels too much."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},"modules":[{"_key":"0c5ecd4c7b78","_type":"faqBlock","noNumbers":true,"questions":[{"_key":"05729ccd2f6b","_type":"faq","answer":[{"_key":"95a50b30a243","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"0430902e08210","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"By rocking, swaying, dancing, spinning, jiggling, shaking or flapping your arms and hands."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"question":[{"_key":"997030739c85","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"616b3634b4130","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Moving your body"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},{"_key":"669081452c98","_type":"faq","answer":[{"_key":"e8be1b61d39c","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"21ba292b88620","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Like humming, singing, repetitive noises."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"question":[{"_key":"eef105b42270","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"a43aadc62af00","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Making soothing sounds"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},{"_key":"ec29ccf87428","_type":"faq","answer":[{"_key":"c44fc87844e2","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"8920954199040","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Using fidget or sensory tools. If you don’t have any, go outside and touch a plant, grass or the earth. Try holding cool or warm things (ice, or mug of tea). See if you feel calmer in contact with something soft (like a blanket) or hard (like the floor or wall)."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"question":[{"_key":"36f67eb8aeb5","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"b9185302400f0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Touching or playing"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]}],"text":[{"_key":"8b57e4ad5387","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"b888e0742cd00","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Sensory overload can make you feel cranky, upset and overwhelmed. If you notice that you’re feeling overstimulated, self-stimulation or ‘stimming’ can help soothe your nervous system. Stimming uses repetitive activities to distract you from the source/s of discomfort, refocusing your energy on feeling relaxed and calm."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"fab7d88f7265","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"1e52f1992cd90","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"You could try:"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"title":"The benefits of ‘stimming’ "},{"_key":"8cc349752898","_type":"faqBlock","noNumbers":true,"questions":[{"_key":"cc88c97902f1","_type":"faq","answer":[{"_key":"46df652d3329","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"5e4f471ddfdc0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"If you’re at home, close the curtains and spend some time in a quiet, dark room. Sit or lie down and put a cooling eye mask or damp cloth over your face. If you’re at home or in public, wearing sunglasses or transition lenses are a great way to filter light."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"question":[{"_key":"73854410924b","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"8b20c9d2baa60","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Sight"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},{"_key":"be2cb09011cf","_type":"faq","answer":[{"_key":"42926b7dcfb8","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"76c904ddfd970","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Noise-cancelling headphones can be used to filter unpleasant sounds, but you’ll still be able to hear your baby/children when parenting."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"555017e5317c","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"97bd043fd03f0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Earmuffs (like the ones construction workers use) can help filter noise, and they’re also a visual signal to older children and loved ones that you need some quiet time."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"4f9c84769d7c","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"46319bc33b990","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Try leaning against a wall, to block sounds coming from behind and beside you. Listen to your favourite music or podcast to reset the sounds around you. Explore binaural beats, and ‘colour noise’ playlists (white, brown, pink, green noise and others) online."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"question":[{"_key":"d9eccdaa263c","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"7daaf067fcbd0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Hearing"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},{"_key":"973812922966","_type":"faq","answer":[{"_key":"8e830c8a4126","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"733e6d169ad90","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Try a weighted blanket, or soft toys. Compression garments (sleeves, socks, binders) have a similar effect to weighted blankets if you’re moving around. Note: Some of these garments aren’t recommended for use in pregnancy and when breastfeeding - always chat to your doctor about suitable options before using them."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"question":[{"_key":"34d652d159d3","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"0be6760bbf950","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Touch"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},{"_key":"f8a9dd6be782","_type":"faq","answer":[{"_key":"0ec8a6fd2074","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"d15d3a25f00c0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Sniff your baby! That sweet, sleepy baby body odour is uniquely pleasant for parents to smell and can boost bonding. You can also try any scent that is pleasant to you like fresh clothes, soap and body lotions, essential oils and perfumes."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"question":[{"_key":"2de1754769f5","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"9b248d33c0c20","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Smell"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},{"_key":"e234e9a891e9","_type":"faq","answer":[{"_key":"028781cab3a7","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"4ff92705e2300","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Make a snack of your favourite foods and have something icy, warm or bubbly to drink. Eat and sip as slowly as possible for maximum relaxation effect."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"question":[{"_key":"10badd40954a","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"5c94a4d55a700","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Taste"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},{"_key":"9bcb2b8be23a","_type":"faq","answer":[{"_key":"0a3ec9ccbf13","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"0e630abc1b2f0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Bilateral movement in particular can be calming. This is anything that uses both sides of your brain. Try shifting your weight between your left and right feet, tapping your collar bones with the opposite hands or walking where your eye has to track left and right."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"question":[{"_key":"1ac807dbbab7","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"eef615b81159","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Movement"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]}],"text":[{"_key":"d10562f66675","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"6d2f0df7cbb50","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"You could try these strategies for each of your senses. Experiment and find the ones that work for you – there may be a few:"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"title":"Sensory re-set activities "},{"_key":"4c699f62b537","_type":"freeText","text":[{"_key":"de16f6ba920c","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"a6e304ae296b0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Sensory overload can feel like you’re being chased by a tiger (or swarm of mosquitoes). Eating and drinking sends a signal to our nervous system that we are safe, with no need for alarm. In ancient times, nobody stopped for lunch when they were being chased by an animal. The ‘rest and digest’ approach is a great hack to use whenever you need to decompress."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},{"_key":"bfdd159706b2","_type":"quote","attribution":"David","quote":"I feel much better when I’ve gone for a walk while listening to music or podcasts through my noise-cancelling headphones."},{"_key":"ba0173d4ebbf","_type":"faqBlock","noNumbers":true,"questions":[{"_key":"c655a815ae80","_type":"faq","answer":[{"_key":"3ec74f2044b2","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"a0185ccc2cc20","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Do some drawing, painting, doodling or ‘Zentangles’ (creating abstract art using structured patterns), pastels, colouring-in books."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"question":[{"_key":"39908e725fb5","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"32fe67de158c0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Art"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},{"_key":"beae5bbd848c","_type":"faq","answer":[{"_key":"2369cb4da96c","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"819550ae38350","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Try baking, pickles, home-made playdough or slime. Pre-prep easy snacks and meals – sometimes repetitive chopping can be really relaxing."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"question":[{"_key":"4c2c5329f025","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"56d9804a2f3b0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Cooking for fun"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},{"_key":"1493d8957a6d","_type":"faq","answer":[{"_key":"e5fae7239404","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"bb6a5818c40c0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Knitting, cross-stitch, ceramics, polymer clay play, sewing."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"question":[{"_key":"f0fbd2e08666","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"87b2dd81bd960","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Craft"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},{"_key":"160a1f0f5833","_type":"faq","answer":[{"_key":"7c3689ef2a52","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"b43f1c199e380","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Listen to an audiobook or podcast, read about one of your interests, look at art online. Watch a familiar (or funny) favourite film or show – try it with the sound off, subtitles on."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"question":[{"_key":"fbc9104a29f9","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"204f4669783c0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Culture and entertainment"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},{"_key":"a88ed32612f4","_type":"faq","answer":[{"_key":"9cfb66f067f6","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"8a202168049f0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Do a crossword, or jigsaw, or play a ‘sorting’ game. You can find these activities on your phone too."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"question":[{"_key":"acae66c0d86d","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"920bb20cd64c0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Easy puzzles"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},{"_key":"71e1ac361959","_type":"faq","answer":[{"_key":"bdc964a9d9b3","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"f2c0c58f7d8b0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Take a walk or spend time in the garden. If you can’t get outside, lie in bed and watch the clouds or stars drift by. Can you see any wildlife from where you are? Birds? Insects? Listen to the wind blowing, dogs barking, birds chirping or any other sounds from nature."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"question":[{"_key":"532ee5c0fef6","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"e448ec0cdd910","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Nature"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},{"_key":"ef84da1cf034","_type":"faq","answer":[{"_key":"c1ff26e450e0","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"c7854dd6658e0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Do your cleansing or make-up routine, if you have one. If you don’t have the energy for a bath or shower, use a washcloth or baby wipes on your face and body to feel refreshed. Self-care can also include getting some exercise, such as stretching, yoga, walking, and swimming. Taking time for ourselves, such as putting our feet up and spending time simply resting can also be a useful way to care for ourselves."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"question":[{"_key":"36d5fe6131d3","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"8a8ec40f54bb0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Self-care"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]}],"text":[{"_key":"003ea0d4893b","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"9f477378e2eb0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"These may be some of your favourite activities or new things to explore. When we engage in our passions and interests it can help other sensory inputs to fade into the background. "}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"f3cc011f5e85","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"c1b1705777f80","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"If you’re a parent of older children, most of these can be shared activities. If parenting is making you feel over-stimulated, redirecting attention to a shared task may help reduce stress. If you have a partner or loved one who also cares for your child/ren, see if you can arrange to take turns parenting, with regular breaks for pleasurable sensory activity time."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"ff7e0be06277","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"b70c06e1eaaf","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Everyone will find different activities soothing. Here are a few you may like to try."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"title":"Finding your favourite self-soothing activities"},{"_key":"fbae4deda882","_type":"freeText","text":[{"_key":"c1f78eb4b266","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"7d78b023d9420","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Taking time to rest, and reaching out for help"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"h3"},{"_key":"24a79466a8f8","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"23a7d26a4d510","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"If you’re in a state of sensory overload, it’s okay to need – and to take – some time to rest and re-set. You can try using a combination of the strategies we’ve listed to calm and soothe yourself. It’s also a good idea to seek support from others when everything feels overwhelming."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"1d43fee0e1b2","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"e8d25667a02e0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Support options include:"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"bc9bf7edbced","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"0f6912c1893c0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Family and friends"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"8e4d1d044d18","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"37966189be250","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Your healthcare providers"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"ebb120b424db","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"18c60f4c661d0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Free national helpline "},{"_key":"18c60f4c661d1","_type":"span","marks":["931af1f0aae1"],"text":"Autism Connect"},{"_key":"06fc304e4a35","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":" on 1300 308 699 (8am – 7pm weekdays)"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[{"_key":"931af1f0aae1","_type":"link","href":"https://www.amaze.org.au/autismconnect/","linkType":"external","url":"https://www.amaze.org.au/autismconnect/"}],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"ce1364c458fe","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"004f838bdbc10","_type":"span","marks":["391eb2db027c"],"text":"ADHD Foundation Australia Helpline"},{"_key":"004f838bdbc11","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":" on 1300 39 39 19"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[{"_key":"391eb2db027c","_type":"link","href":"https://adhdfoundation.org.au/","linkType":"external","url":"https://adhdfoundation.org.au/"}],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"4fbadc8ad608","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"05b403298d960","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"PANDA Helpline"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"7650e2518680","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"364f723c7c890","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Looking after yourself and finding ways to manage sensory overload is also looking after your baby, and being the best parent you can be. If you’d like to have a chat about your parenthood experience as a neurodivergent person, you’re welcome to call PANDA any time."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"bbc3a2a75386","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"ee72b6fcf16e0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"PANDA is committed to providing neurodivergent-affirming support. Many of our Helpline counsellors and peer practitioners are neurodiverse, and parents. We understand how intensely challenging – and joyful! - pregnancy and parenthood can be. We’re here to support you, whenever you need us."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},{"_key":"5dafcc27597c","_type":"helpLine","field":"content"},{"_key":"115d2cd51c4d","_type":"articleCollection","background":{"title":"peach80","value":"#FFD29D"},"categoryOrTag":{"_ref":"93c6a6d9-0f5a-45ab-a76e-08706724c63d","_type":"reference"},"eyebrow":"Articles","population":"latest"}],"seo":{"_type":"seo","metaDescription":"A guide for neurodiverse parents to build up a toolkit of useful self-soothing skills for all those times when everything feels too much.","socialImage":{"_type":"image","asset":{"_ref":"image-ab0c28c3bbee5ed0f4e2b251d029a0a525e4f66c-6024x4024-jpg","_type":"reference"}}},"showFeedbackForm":true,"sidebarPosts":[{"_key":"3cd77d14549b","_ref":"87034a7a-2a87-4131-8fa4-63b5770c6025","_type":"reference"}],"sidebarTitle":"Real stories","slug":{"_type":"slug","current":"neurodiverse-parents"},"tags":[{"_key":"063a11fdc62c","_ref":"93c6a6d9-0f5a-45ab-a76e-08706724c63d","_type":"reference"}],"title":"Neurodiverse parents: Managing sensory overload ","id":"-684e3356-f6cd-5ad8-88af-14b40cbf9a6a","children":[],"internal":{"type":"SanityArticle","contentDigest":"4823ee06b104a83e3cda926a142ca059","owner":"gatsby-source-sanity","counter":154},"parent":null,"__gatsby_resolved":{"slug":{"current":"neurodiverse-parents"}}},"href":"https://panda.org.au/articles/neurodiverse-parents","linkType":"internal"}],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"9ee6f3e0edbe","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"ce1a527a1e0e0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":""}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"background":null},{"_key":"df3a9d3e9d0a","_type":"storyCollection","include":null,"eyebrow":"Stories","title":null,"population":"select","storyType":"story","posts":[{"title":"Bao's story","_type":"story","slug":{"current":"bao-s-story"},"header":{"image":{"asset":{"_id":"image-cfdcdbf0116a2f9655558a8946d540348ac6a648-1104x828-jpg"},"crop":null,"hotspot":null,"alt":null},"text":[{"_key":"cc8100a4cfc6","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"3bd829bdab83","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Experiencing a traumatic birth.\n"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]}},{"title":"Lisa’s story: Recovering from a traumatic birth ","_type":"story","slug":{"current":"lisas-story"},"header":{"image":{"asset":{"_id":"image-4db76682b4b6b775b6559c66468d2493069d915e-1600x900-jpg"},"crop":null,"hotspot":null,"alt":null},"text":[{"_key":"12dd52a6bfba","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"1acae5d59769","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"\"On paper, my birth experience probably looked rather normal. It was traumatic for me.\""}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]}},{"title":"Katy's story","_type":"story","slug":{"current":"katys-story-birth-trauma"},"header":{"image":{"asset":{"_id":"image-9e8ebe9a2695bc719763c7a0637ffb857d4d987c-640x640-jpg"},"crop":null,"hotspot":null,"alt":null},"text":[{"_key":"52f203e6f31f","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"3220412195740","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Katy shares how birth trauma affected her postnatal mental health"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]}}],"profiles":[],"background":{"value":"#FFA688"},"categoryOrTag":null},{"_key":"5ac4942b193d","_type":"articleCollection","include":null,"eyebrow":"Articles","title":"More information","population":"select","posts":[{"title":"Mental health and wellbeing during pregnancy ","_type":"article","slug":{"current":"mental-health-and-wellbeing-during-pregnancy"},"header":{"image":{"asset":{"_id":"image-2d1f7486e8b77f9ae5f3895588e9cbb9a2df491c-2500x1800-jpg"},"crop":null,"hotspot":null,"alt":"Mum looking out the window with hand on pregnant belly"},"text":[{"_key":"c207d9a2e73f","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"f56010eeddb80","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Mental health and emotional wellbeing are important when you’re having a baby."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]}},{"title":"Birth trauma and recovery ","_type":"article","slug":{"current":"childbirth-trauma-and-recovery"},"header":{"image":{"asset":{"_id":"image-e3f2eeee43dd28db708f12a67872dd6dd461744d-2500x1667-jpg"},"crop":null,"hotspot":null,"alt":"Mum holding newborn"},"text":[{"_key":"d21de4deaac0","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"acdd495ebba80","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"During pregnancy, it's common to worry about what our birth experience will be like. Many of us expect that birthing our babies will be hard but rewarding work. Yet very few of us feel prepared for complications in labour and childbirth."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]}},{"title":"Getting help: Support after birth ","_type":"article","slug":{"current":"getting-help-support-after-birth"},"header":{"image":{"asset":{"_id":"image-65a0d7715e51fc1bf780d6e981df58bd84a42ddc-2500x2000-jpg"},"crop":null,"hotspot":null,"alt":null},"text":[{"_key":"b52d95eff726","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"dc0e3bad44fa0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"After you’ve had your baby, specialist support is available for your mental health and wellbeing."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]}}],"background":{"value":"#FFA688"},"categoryOrTag":null},{"_key":"41e73e81503f","_type":"checklist"},{"_key":"af0692b58228","_type":"chatBotModule","include":null},{"_key":"be232dcec6cd","_type":"helpLine","include":null}],"relatedArticles":[],"showFeedbackForm":true,"seo":{"metaTitle":null,"metaDescription":"Giving birth can lead to a range of complex feelings, especially when the experience is a difficult or traumatic one.","socialImage":{"asset":{"_id":"image-d3493e733db85eff1cad234ed2cb2591973d03d6-1200x630-png"}}}}},"pageContext":{"slug":"complicated-births","isArticle":true,"lastMod":"2024-07-04"}},
    "staticQueryHashes": ["2217905065","3363036388","3383307213","3769966569"]}