Birth injuries, or neonatal birth trauma, are injuries that happen to a baby during birth. While many birth injuries are minor, some are serious enough to require further treatment. 

Birth injuries directly impact the child, but they can also have a severe impact on the mental health of new parents. 

Postpartum depression

Postpartum depression (PPD) can occur without any form of birth trauma or birth injury, such as Erb’s palsy, Meconium Aspiration Syndrome, oxygen deprivation injuries, or broken bones. It’s a serious, long-lasting form of depression that happens during pregnancy or up to a year after childbirth. 

PPD already affects approximately 10% of new mothers, but it’s more common in parents who have experienced any form of birth trauma. If you’re feeling low or angry, have flashbacks of the birth, are excessively crying, or are struggling to bond with your baby, you may have trauma-induced PPD. 

It’s important to know that you’re not alone and that help is available. Reach out to a trusted friend, family member, or mental health professional to access the support you deserve.  

Posttraumatic stress disorder

You’ve just experienced something traumatic, with your child being hurt while entering the world. After such a life-changing ordeal, posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is not uncommon. 

This mental health condition is often triggered by witnessing a terrifying event, and symptoms include flashbacks, severe anxiety, emotional numbness, and avoidance of reminders. With its potential to disrupt daily life and cause considerable distress, it’s crucial to seek out treatment, such as therapy and medication.

Chronic stress and decision fatigue

For many parents whose children are injured at birth, the recovery process isn’t swift. If your child has a long-term medical condition, such as cerebral palsy or Erb’s palsy, there are generally ongoing medical appointments and therapies. You can also feel a great deal of uncertainty about the future. This can all take its toll and present as chronic stress and decision fatigue. 

In most cases, decision fatigue can cause irritability, procrastination, and even forms of physical discomfort, such as tension headaches. 

Sleep deprivation

Many new parents are already dealing with sleep deprivation. After all, newborns wake up multiple times a night for at least the first six to 12 weeks. However, sleep deprivation after a birth injury can be even more testing. For many parents, it can exacerbate physical recovery and mental health. A lack of sleep can also sometimes increase pain sensitivity and cause cognitive and emotional dysfunction. 

Financial pressure

Most parents expect at least some financial changes after welcoming a baby. Taking time off work can mean surviving on one income and budgeting for childcare costs. But a birth injury adds a new layer of financial pressure that many new parents aren’t expecting. 

The costs of therapy, medical bills, extended leave, or even the transition to a full-time caregiver can quickly add up. That financial strain can amplify emotional stress and cause considerable turmoil for many families.  

The toll that a birth injury can take on a family is considerable, from postpartum depression and PTSD through to extreme financial pressure. If you’re a new parent in this position, you’re not alone, and help is available. Start exploring legal and mental health support services today.

Adam Mulligan, a psychology graduate from the University of Hertfordshire, has a keen interest in the fields of mental health, wellness, and lifestyle.