University of East Anglia warns of high rates of postpartum PTSD

Researchers from the University of East Anglia have warned that approximately one in twenty women develop postpartum post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). An analysis published in the ‘British Journal of General Practice’ highlights significant gaps in how primary care physicians recognize this condition, noting it is frequently misdiagnosed as postpartum depression or overlooked entirely during routine check-ups.

While PTSD is often associated with traumatic births or difficult pregnancies, researchers noted it can also occur following medically uncomplicated deliveries. Symptoms include recurring memories, nightmares, intense anxiety, and persistent negative thoughts. Dr. Megan Foreman, the lead author, stated that untreated birth trauma can lead to severe consequences, such as women avoiding medical care during subsequent pregnancies or making specific reproductive decisions, like opting for planned cesarean sections, to regain a sense of control.

The study suggests that general practitioners currently lack the specific diagnostic tools and training required to assess the severity of symptoms or identify which patients need specialist treatment.