If you are upset or traumatised regarding any aspect of your birth experience, it is important to seek help.
You can talk to your maternity care provider (GP, midwife or obstetrician), your public health nurse, a relative or a close friend.
For independent and confidential support you can also contact AIMS Ireland’s Information and Support Aide at support@aimsireland.com.
We would like to offer the following links as a resource for anyone who feels they need to speak with a professional following a traumatic birth experience.
Accredited counsellors
The list of accredited counsellors in Ireland can be found here.
Accredited psychologists
The of list of accredited counselling or clinical psychologists (panic, anxiety or PTSD) can be found here – OR – can be arranged via a referral through a GP or this site.
Family Resource Centres
Family Resource Centres also offer counselling liaison services. Find your nearest Family Resource Centre here.
AIMS Ireland Birth Healing support group
AIMS Ireland facilitates a closed group for women whom have experienced a difficult or traumatic childbirth offering a safe place to share stories and provide peer support. If you are interested in this group, please contact us by email at support@aimsireland.com or via Facebook private messages. You will be required to provide an email address to be added.
The Birth Trauma Association
Established in the UK in 2004 to support women suffering from Post Natal Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) or birth trauma. The Association is run by mothers who wish to support other women who difficult childbirth experiences.
www.birthtraumaassociation.org.uk
For advice on obtaining a copy of your birth notes and/or making a complaint, please see the AIMSI Factsheet Requesting Your Birth Notes and Making a Complaint
The following books are recommended by psychotherapists Anne Gill and Tricia McDonnell who have run a number of AIMS Ireland Birth Healing Workshops for women.
Waking the Tiger, Healing Trauma – Peter Levine
Homecoming, Reclaiming and Healing Your Inner Child – John Bradshaw
Welcome Home: Following Your Soul’s Journey Back Home – Sandra Ingerman
The following websites are also recommended: