In the birth space, it hides behind forced compliance, medical dismissal, and the pressure to stay strong. Black women remember the tone of a provider’s voice, the fear of not being believed, the moment her control was taken. That memory lives in her nervous system, and it changes how she sleeps, eats, bonds, and copes. Now add adjusting to motherhood with a newborn, sometimes other children, a spouse, work, and an entirely new normal. For Black women, perinatal mental health distress often shows up as:

• Isolation

• Irritability

• Disconnect

• Worry

• Somatic symptoms (migraines, stomach aches, etc).

But it’s difficult to seek help in a world that has publicly failed Black women time and time again. So we sit in silence hoping for someone to notice the slightest hint of abnormality

One area that often gets overlooked by birthing people is their personal risk factors for perinatal mental health conditions. Often, people who have had one child and no history of a mood disorder assume they will not be at risk during a later pregnancy or birth. However, birthing people can experience a perinatal mental health condition even if they have no prior history of a mood disorder. Mood disorders do not only impact first-time moms. A birthing person can experience a mood disorder during or after any pregnancy.

The perinatal period is transformational time and for many, it can also reactivate past trauma. This article explores how trauma can shape the experiences of birthing people, the importance of trauma-informed care, and practical steps that providers can take to offer safer, more supportive care. 

The fourth trimester is a challenging time for many new mothers, but if you’ve experienced birth trauma, you may find this period particularly difficult. Acknowledging your trauma, using healthy coping skills, and connecting with a support system can help you navigate this time.