Is Pregnancy Loss a Trauma That is Often Overlooked?

SHOW NOTES: Episode 27

Is pregnancy loss a trauma that is often overlooked?

In today’s episode, I am diving into the topic of trauma, specifically focusing on pregnancy loss as a form of birth trauma. This trauma is often minimized and can lead to women who have experienced this internalizing their pain. I share research with you that says that 1 in 3 births could be classified as traumatic, and I believe that pregnancy loss should also be recognized as a major trauma. I share the concept of shock trauma and explain its physical and emotional effects. This type of trauma occurs when an event overwhelms our ability to protect ourselves, causing physical and emotional harm. Pregnancy loss can be seen as shock trauma, as it overloads the body and triggers a survival response. This trauma can affect the body in various ways, leading to diminished life force, decreased oxygen and nutrients, and impaired brain function.

Not all women will perceive pregnancy loss as traumatic, especially if they have a strong support system. However, for those who feel isolated and unsupported, the experience can become traumatic, and their bodies go into a survival pattern.

I stress the importance of having the proper tools and awareness to support oneself physically in order to process the trauma. This is a crucial point that we all need to understand and act upon.

Today’s episode was a powerful reminder of the need to recognize and address the trauma of pregnancy loss. It's a topic that deserves more attention, understanding, and support. As a society, we need to ensure that those who experience this trauma are not left to internalize their pain but are given the tools and support they need to heal.

I would love to hear what you thought of today’s episode on Instagram: @instituteofhealing_pl. Screenshot the episode, share it there, and tag me or send me a DM and let’s chat more about today’s episode! Much love to you all.

If you want to know more about how you can be the support for others or get support yourself after a loss, fill out the application form for the Pregnancy Loss Practitioner Certification.



IN THIS EPISODE, WE COVERED:

  • Trauma and pregnancy loss

  • Society and medical professionals downplaying the significance of pregnancy loss trauma

  • Research suggesting 1 in 3 births are considered birth trauma

  • Pregnancy loss as big "T" trauma with distinct before and after in a person's life

  • Pregnancy loss as little "T" trauma causing significant distress

  • Shock trauma and its relation to pregnancy loss

  • Effects of trauma on the body

  • Perception of trauma and the role of support systems

  • Importance of tools and awareness to support oneself physically in processing trauma



LINKS AND RESOURCES MENTIONED IN TODAY’S EPISODE:



MORE ABOUT THE WHAT I WISH I KNEW AFTER PREGNANCY LOSS PODCAST:

Welcome to the What I Wish I Knew After Pregnancy Loss Podcast! On this podcast, you will find support and encouragement for pregnancy loss at all stages, whether you were early in your pregnancy or experienced a stillbirth. 



You are safe, seen, and deeply understood here.



Hi, I’m Sharna, I am a loss mum myself and a mum to a beautiful rainbow baby. I am a projector in human design which means I am here to guide you to a new way of being, thinking, or healing. I know what it is like to personally live through the soul shattering experience of pregnancy loss. Out of my healing, I became a Trauma Informed Coach, Self-healing spiral practitioner and a womb light practitioner. I knew that my experience wasn’t the end of my story and I am here to show you that it isn’t the end of yours. You don’t have to ever find meaning in your loss but there is meaning in your life after loss & you deserve to heal.



On this podcast, you will find what I wish I knew before my pregnancy loss, guest experts expanding on important topics, and overall valuable information about pregnancy loss and healing and recovery after.

I would love to connect further with you on my Instagram: @instituteofhealing_pl or @sharnasouthan and you can also find out more information about The Pregnancy Loss Practitioner Certification here: https://www.sharnasouthan.com/healing-through-loss-blueprint.



This podcast is not intended for medical advice. Please seek medical advice from your physician.

PodcastSharna Southan