Ep. 255: PTSD in the Perinatal Period

We often use the terms birth trauma, perinatal trauma, and PTSD interchangeably, but they're not actually the same thing.

In this episode closing out PTSD Awareness Month, Kayleigh breaks down the important differences between:

• Birth and perinatal trauma as an experience
• Post-traumatic stress symptoms (PTSS) that may not meet diagnostic criteria
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) as a clinical diagnosis

Understanding these distinctions matters, not because one experience is "worse" than another, but because too many parents are left believing they aren't struggling "enough" to deserve support.

In this episode, you'll learn:

• Why birth trauma is not the same as a PTSD diagnosis
• The DSM-5 criteria for PTSD and how they apply to childbirth
• Why many parents experience significant trauma symptoms without meeting full diagnostic criteria
• The prevalence of birth trauma, PTSS, and PTSD after childbirth
• Why current postpartum screening often misses trauma entirely
• How hypervigilance, intrusive memories, avoidance, nightmares, and nervous system changes can show up after birth
• Why relational trauma and interactions with healthcare providers can profoundly shape whether a birth becomes traumatic
• Why every parent experiencing trauma symptoms deserves care—regardless of diagnosis

Whether you identify with birth trauma, postpartum PTSD, or simply know something changed after your birth experience, this episode is a reminder that your pain doesn't have to fit neatly into a diagnostic box to be real.

Resources Mentioned

• Diagnostic criteria for PTSD (DSM-5)
• Research on childbirth-related PTSD prevalence
• Research on severe maternal morbidity, provider communication, and birth trauma
• CDC report on mistreatment during maternity care

Connect with Kayleigh

If this episode resonated with you, share it with another parent who may need to hear that healing isn't reserved only for those with a diagnosis.

Follow along for more education and support around birth trauma, postpartum PTSD, and nervous system healing.

For more birth trauma content and a community full of love and support, head to my Instagram at @thebirthtrauma_mama.

Learn more about the support and services I offer through The Birth Trauma Mama Therapy & Support Services.

Disclaimer - The views and opinions expressed by guests on The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the official stance, views, or positions of The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast. The content shared is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional or medical advice and/or endorsement.