'I haven’t recovered – I’m not sure I will': Women affected by birth trauma recall experiences

We asked readers to tell us about their experience of birth trauma. Many reported persistent physical and emotional issues. In response, a leading academic says we must address the postnatal health of women

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Most births do not lead to long-term health issues. Obstetricians and midwives do an extraordinary job, often under difficult circumstances.

Yet, according to a European research group, 20% of mothers report their birth experience as traumatic.