Common things that can trigger you after a perinatal trauma
A trauma trigger is anything that reminds you of a traumatic event. Triggers can come from many different sources and are unique to each individual and their experience.
Very often, a trauma trigger is sensory- a sound, smell, or sight that awakens a disturbing memory. Other kinds of trauma reminders can also become triggering—an emotional state, an intrusive thought, the place where the trauma took place, common physical experiences such as your period, or a certain time of day.
Common triggers include:
your baby(or any baby)
birth stories
your baby's birthday (or other significant dates such as embryo transfers, losses)
your own body- body sensations, scars, pregnancy/birth related physical changes, your period
pain or discomfort
breast/chest feeding
sounds and smells
emotions
intrusive thoughts
doctors/medical appointments
sex/physical intimacy
being alone
Encountering a trauma trigger can cause traumatic stress responses or PTSD reactions such as panic attacks, flashbacks, extreme emotional reactions, or dissociation.
After a trauma during pregnancy or postpartum, avoiding triggers may be impossible. But there are steps you can take to help yourself cope with the distress of trauma:
◾Identify potential triggers so that you can make a plan to support yourself through difficult moments or situations.
◾Learn about the signs and symptoms of traumatic stress and PTSD so that you understand what's happening to you and feel a bit more in control.
◾Grounding skills can help you stay in your body, in the present moment.
◾Know that perinatal trauma and PTSD are treatable. Getting support through trauma focused therapy can help you make a full recovery.
