Previous birth trauma and new pregnancy

[Fredthefish]

I’m 22+4 and really struggling with previous birth trauma. Including long hospital stay and procedures done without consent - I actively said no to them and have flashbacks of this. Has anybody had issues with birth trauma during new pregnancy? How did you deal with it? Get through labour/birth?

So sorry this has happened to you, would you prefer a c-section this time or do you want to have a vaginal birth again?

I did. I had received therapy for PTSD from dc1 and then when pregnant with dc2, had to actively think to use the techniques I had been taught to manage the intrusive thoughts.

Have you had any help for the birth trauma?
Could you talk to your midwife?

For what it’s worth, I changed to a different hospital than my first birth and had lots of time with the consultant midwives there. They were absolutely amazing and helped me to gain control of the second delivery. Having some element of control will help you manage the anxiety.

@Sarah13xx I’ve been offered a section but not sure if it’s the best option. When going through my previous notes it said I was good at pushing and I laboured quite quickly so would rather have a vaginal birth.

@LooksLikeImStuckHere
That’s interesting - did you have therapy twice? I had EMDR, CBT and counselling following DC1. Waiting for counselling this time. Hopefully I’ll also gain some of the techniques you used.
Midwives are aware, I’ve done both afterthoughts and now seeing therapist. Ive also seen specialist midwife who has been great.

They have suggested I move my care to another hospital.. however that would mean over an hours travel time.
Did you see the perinatal mental health people?