Postpartum PTSD: When Childbirth Leaves Lasting Scars

Childbirth is often portrayed as a joyful, beautiful experience. But for approximately 4% of new parents, delivery becomes a traumatic event that leads to post-traumatic stress disorder. Postpartum PTSD (PP-PTSD) is a real condition that can affect mothers, partners, and even healthcare providers who witness a difficult birth.

At Next Step Psychiatry in Lilburn, GA, we understand that trauma doesn't always look the way people expect — and that includes trauma surrounding the birth of a child.

What Causes Postpartum PTSD?

Postpartum PTSD develops when the birthing experience is perceived as traumatic. This can include emergency C-sections, severe hemorrhaging, injuries to the mother or baby, NICU admissions, or feeling a loss of control during delivery. What makes an experience traumatic is subjective — it's about how you experienced the event, not how others perceived it.

Risk factors include a prior history of depression or PTSD, fear of childbirth, difficulty conceiving, and previous pregnancy complications such as miscarriage.

Recognizing the Symptoms

To meet diagnostic criteria for PTSD, symptoms must persist for at least one month and include:

Re-Experiencing

• Vivid flashbacks to the delivery
• Recurring nightmares about the birth
• Intrusive, distressing memories
• Physical stress responses when reminded of the event

Avoidance

• Avoiding hospitals, doctors' offices, or anything associated with childbirth
• Pushing away thoughts or conversations about the delivery

Arousal and Reactivity Changes

• Being easily startled or always "on guard"
• Irritability or angry outbursts
• Difficulty sleeping or concentrating

Changes in Mood and Thinking

• Feeling detached from your baby or partner
• Persistent guilt, shame, or self-blame
• Loss of interest in activities you once enjoyed

How Long Does It Last?

Without treatment, postpartum PTSD can persist for months or even years. Some parents don't develop symptoms until well after the birth. Early intervention makes a significant difference in recovery outcomes.

Treatment at Next Step Psychiatry

Our team provides comprehensive treatment for postpartum PTSD, including medication management to address anxiety, depression, and sleep difficulties that often accompany the condition. We serve families throughout Gwinnett County, DeKalb County, and the greater Atlanta metro area.