How did we get here? A qualitative study of contributors to traumatic birth experiences in NICU parents

Interpersonal interactions play a huge role in patients' perception of the birth experience. Despite this, good communication, access to support, and anticipatory guidance can be protective factors, but providers need more education to better understand birth trauma and how it can present. Trauma-informed care education among medical staff is needed to improve recognition of signs and symptoms of trauma responses and reduce re-traumatization of patients during the perinatal experience.