Women’s views on the need for birth reflection clinics/services following a traumatic event during childbirth within the Irish maternity services

Research supervisor: Dr Déirdre Daly

Aim

This research aims to determine the need for birth reflection clinics/services for women who have experienced a traumatic event during labour or birth. I plan to survey women and ascertain how they perceive the mental and general health support given to them following their traumatic experience. This project will identify the type and frequency of trauma experienced.

Objectives

1. To explore the views of women in the Irish maternity services that believe they had experienced a traumatic birth.
2. To analyse the type and frequency of trauma experienced by women.
3. To identify if there is a need for a clinic/service to be implemented to provide additional support.

Method

• The study will be conducted using an anonymous, online survey.

Participants

• The sampling pool will consist of approximately 100 women who have experienced a traumatic event during labour or the early postpartum period.

Analysis

• Descriptive statistics will be used to illustrate the variety and prevalence of trauma experienced.

Anticipated outcome

• To determine if a clinic/service is indicated to support women based on the findings.