CONTACT US: Contact info
|
Citation |
Edworthy Z, Chasey R, Williams H. J. Reprod. Infant Psychol. 2008; 26(2): 123. |
|
Copyright |
(Copyright © 2008, Informa - Taylor and Francis Group) |
|
DOI |
|
PMID |
unavailable |
|
Abstract |
Recent studies show that post-traumatic stress reactions can occur following childbirth. The role of pre-event schema as a vulnerability factor in the development of post-traumatic stress symptoms in childbirth has not been investigated. We aimed to determine the relationship between pre-existing schema and interaction with previous trauma, birth experiences, birth appraisal and social support in the development of post-traumatic symptoms following childbirth. We undertook a prospective, longitudinal study, whereby 121 first-time mothers completed questionnaires from 34 weeks in their pregnancy, and of these 108 completed a second set of questionnaires at 6 weeks post-partum. We found that the development of post-traumatic stress symptoms following childbirth was significantly related to negative appraisal of the birthing experience and to pre-existing, maladaptive schemas. We conclude that appraisal of the birthing experience and pre-existing schemas have an influence on the development of post-traumatic stress symptoms following childbirth. |