An investigation of post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms following traumatic labour experiences : causal factors, mediating variables and consequences

• Main Author: Allen, Sarah F. C.
• Other Authors: North, Nigel
• Published: University of Southampton 1996
• Subjects: 150; Childbirth
• Online Access: https://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.243138

The relationship between distressing labour experiences and development of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) symptoms was explored in a cohort of women eight months post-childbirth. Positive correlations were found between PTSD symptoms (measured by the Impact of Event Scale (lES)) and levels of distress, both at being reminded of labour and for recollections of distress during labour. A sub-group of women (N=20), who perceived their labour experience as traumatic, were interviewed. Processes occurring during traumatic labour and impact on postpartum adaptation were investigated using qualitative methodology. Pain, past experiences and beliefs that their baby would be harmed led to feeling out of control which was maintained by failed attempts to elicit practical and emotional support from staff and partners. Consequences of continued distress related to an impact on self, relationships with others and fear of future childbirth. The relationship between PTSD and Postnatal Depression and factors mediating development of PTSD symptoms were assessed using the IBS, the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS), the Perceived Social Support Scales (PSSS), the COPE and the Distressing Events in Labour Questionnaire (DELQ). PTSD symptoms were inversely correlated with PSSS scores and COPE strategies relating to seeking social support, active coping, planning and humour. PTSD symptoms were positively correlated with COPE strategies relating to mental and behavioural disengagement, EPDS scores and stressful communication with staff, threat to baby and total score on the DELQ. Results are discussed in relation to previous research and implications for clinical practice and future research directions.