This episode issues a trigger warning: Descriptions of difficult birth, death and mistreatment

Giving birth can be one of the most painful experiences in a woman’s life, yet the long-term effects of this trauma on millions of new mothers remain largely overlooked. This episode explores the issue of birth trauma and examines how women and families have been systematically failed by the care systems meant to support them. Until recently, birth trauma has been normalized and largely ignored.

It took the traumatic birth experience of a member of parliament to bring this issue to light in the very place where law and policy are made in the UK. Remarkably, this was the first time in history that the experiences of women giving birth were discussed in this context.

In this episode, we delve into the definition of birth trauma, the widespread impact it has, and ways to better understand it. We speak to Kim Thomas, CEO of Birth trauma Association to learn more about the evidence and what more needs to change.

Can we really find a meaningful way to prevent birth trauma for future generations?

Helpful links:

https://www.birthtraumaassociation.org/

https://www.theo-clarke.org.uk/birth-trauma-report

https://masic.org.uk/

https://birthrights.org.uk/factsheets/human-rights-in-maternity-care/

https://www.england.nhs.uk/contact-us/feedback-and-complaints/complaint/