We know that for many families, birth doesn’t always go the way you hoped or imagined, and it can leave a lasting impact. In this episode, we spoke with Trudi about what birth trauma really means, why antenatal education is so important, and how parents can prepare for and recover from challenging experiences.  

Unfortunately in this episode Claire’s internet gave up the ghost and so Becks had to go it alone (Claire never usually let’s that happen!) - we hope that this doesn’t spoil your enjoyment of the episode in any way 😊. 

• Trudi began by telling us all about herself and her background (she used to be a chartered accountant!) and why she came to be involved in Make Birth Better. 
• What birth trauma is, how common it is and what stages it can happen at. Links with depression and PTSD etc. 
• Signs that might indicate birth trauma (eg avoidance of certain settings, appointments etc) along with statistics around birth trauma and PTSD. 
• Becks talked about her own birth experience (19 years ago!) and how a debrief of the experience she and her husband had would have been really welcome and helpful.  
• The importance of keeping lines of communication open.  
• Antenatal education and preparation. 
• How a birth partner can support before and during birth, but that birth can have an impact on them as well. 
• ‘Birth trauma is in the eye of a beholder’ – Cheryl Beck – how every experience is valid and any birth can be traumatic. 
• The process for post birth ‘de-briefs’. 
• What Trudi would say to expectant parents who are anxious about giving birth.  
• Compassionate care and support – at the heart of our maternity services. 
• Tips for looking after yourself emotionally preparing for, during and after giving birth.  

Facebook @bespokefamily / https://www.facebook.com/birthbetter 

Instagram @bespokefamily  / https://www.instagram.com/birthbetter 

Make Birth Better website - https://www.makebirthbetter.org/ 

You may also be interested in our Hypnobirthing episode – listen here 

For information about a Bespoke Family Parent Consultation click here  

‘Your Guide to...’ (our downloadable webinars including preparing for and welcoming your newborn, behaviour, toilet training, sleep and more)  

This podcast is produced by Decibelle Creative