Supporting Survivors of Sexual Abuse Through Pregnancy and Childbirth

Guide for birth professionals on supporting survivors of sexual abuse through pregnancy, labour and postnatal periods. Contains research-based guidance on how to tailor support to these women, with emphasis on how, given the right care, pregnancy and childbirth can be a positive, healing experience for women carrying the trauma of sexual violence.

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With statistics showing that 1 in 5 women have experienced some form of sexual abuse, it is likely that all birth professionals will support a survivor of such abuse at some point during their career. This book provides practical advice for those supporting these women throughout their pregnancy, labour, and postnatal periods.

The impact of past sexual abuse on women during these periods is often underestimated, and this book shows the need for greater compassion and understanding in maternity services regarding this issue. Drawing on a vast range of research and expertise, this book includes details on the identifiable behaviours of survivors, how to respond when someone says they are a survivor, positive stories, and appropriate language to use.

This book is for any care provider who wants to help pregnancy, childbirth and the postnatal period become a healing experience for those carrying trauma, and to support these survivors with compassion, respect and kindness.