What to Know About Overcoming Reproductive Trauma
Having difficulties with pregnancies is one of the least discussed issues when it comes to mental health awareness. Many believe that pregnancy is a joyous period of time and should only be referred to as such. For others, however, pregnancy may leave you with long-lasting trauma.
Reproductive trauma is deeply personal and incredibly emotional. It can have impacts on both your physical and mental health, but you are not alone in your struggle together, and overcoming this trauma is absolutely possible. Whether you are someone who knows the struggles of reproductive trauma firsthand or you simply want to support a loved one, keep reading to learn more.
What is reproductive trauma?
You have likely heard of postpartum depression, but what about reproductive trauma? Both are conditions that can highly affect those going through pregnancies, but reproductive trauma is talked about far less.
Essentially, it refers to the emotional response that can occur during pregnancy or when trying to become pregnant. Based on the personal nature of developing this trauma, it is not widely discussed. This also makes it an incredibly complex experience to navigate, as discussing the trauma requires a very delicate and compassionate approach. Once you are able to recognize reproductive trauma, you can begin to make strides toward coping.
What does reproductive trauma look like?
Reproductive trauma does not have one set list of traits. There are plenty of different ways it can manifest in those it affects. You may notice yourself pulling away from your family and friends if you are living with reproductive trauma.
Generally, however, those suffering from reproductive trauma have increased levels of anxiety, depression, and guilt. You may also experience physical symptoms of trauma, like difficulty sleeping, lack of appetite, or other gastrointestinal issues.
Who can be affected by reproductive trauma?
Reproductive trauma is not caused by one issue. Any issues when it comes to fertility can cause reproductive trauma. Additionally, reproductive trauma does not only affect cisgender women. Any one individual who is struggling with issues surrounding pregnancies is vulnerable to developing this type of specific trauma.
Although there is no one cause for reproductive trauma, those who have dealt with the following are most likely to have some sort of reproductive trauma.
Miscarriages
Low sperm/egg count
Stillbirths
Complicated pregnancies or deliveries
Abortions
Learning to cope with reproductive trauma
The good news about reproductive trauma is that there are plenty of ways you can learn to cope with it. Consider implementing a few of the following techniques into your routine to better manage your reproductive trauma.
Learn what you can: Educating yourself on reproductive trauma is a great step to take in coping with this condition. Knowledge is power, and eliminating some of the unknowns surrounding reproductive trauma will put you back into a position of power over your mental health condition.
Be patient with yourself: Healing is rarely a linear path, and it certainly takes time. Processing your emotions in a healthy manner and beginning to heal is what truly matters. There is no timeline to handle grief, you are allowed to do so on your own terms.
Get professional help: There is nothing wrong with seeking professional help for the trauma you are dealing with. As living with reproductive trauma is such a vulnerable situation, it is probably a good idea to find a therapist who specializes in dealing with trauma.
If you have struggled with reproductive trauma, I extend my most heartfelt apologies. I hope that you are being gentle and forgiving with yourself during the difficult time you are living through. While healing may seem impossible at first, I assure you that it is possible. Together, you and I can begin to walk down the path toward a happier, healthier version of you with trauma therapy. Don’t hesitate to reach out.
