| Abstract [eng] |
Although childbirth is often seen in a positive light, it can be problematic. Nevertheless, there is a lack of such studies. This paper analysed how pre-birth factors and birth-related factors are associated with postpartum PTSD symptoms. 4003 women aged 18 – 45 participated. A survey covering demographic characteristics, antenatal experiences, aspects of birth experience, neonatal separation, behaviour of the medical staff and Trauma Screening Questionnaire (TSQ) were used. Pre-birth factors – younger age, no partner, lower income, prior psychological difficulties – were associated with higher PTSD symptoms. Birth-related factors – greater physical pain, perceiving the birth as more traumatic, neonatal separation, especially when it happened for other reasons, experiencing more intimidation, bullying, abuse, more forms of maltreatment – were linked to higher PTSD symptoms. Being treated more caringly by medical staff was associated with fewer PTSD symptoms. Higher levels of PTSD symptoms were found when neglect of needs and comments about emotional reactions were experienced. Income, diagnosis, psychological difficulties, visits to a psychologist/psychotherapist, assessment of subjective experience, experiencing intimidation predict postpartum PTSD symptoms. This paper reveals risk factors for postpartum PTSD and provides useful insights. |
