Evaluating the impact of domestic violence on Postpartum Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): A prospective study of perinatal mental health outcomes in high-risk populations.

OBJECTIVE

Aim: To investigate the connection between a woman's history of DV, encompassing the perinatal period, and the development of postpartum PTSD within high-risk populations: EMCS and Assisted Vaginal Deliveries (AVD).

PATIENTS AND

METHODS

Materials and

Methods

A sample of 125 mothers who gave birth with emergency cesarean section and elective assisted vaginal delivery in two Greek hospitals have consented to participate in the two phases of the survey, in the 2nd day postpartum and a follow-up in the 6th week postpartum. Socio-demographic data and PCL-5 for DSM-5 were used to diagnose PTSD and PTSD Profile. Of the 125 mothers who consented to participate in the study, 113 replied to the follow-up in the sixth week after birth.

RESULTS

Results

The results show that, from the total sample, 73.5% (n=83) delivered by emergency cesarean section, while 26.5% (n=30) delivered through assisted vaginal delivery. Also, a statistically significant dependence was found between the presence of Domestic Violence during pregnancy and postpartum PTSD (χ2=22.014, p <0.001) and between the presence of Domestic Violence during pregnancy and postpartum profile PTSD (χ2=26.635, p<0.001).

CONCLUSION

Conclusions

This survey shows a high prevalence rate of PTSD in victims of domestic violence after a traumatic birth experience. The findings also emphasize the critical need for psychological support for women with a history of domestic violence, particularly during childbirth, to minimize the likelihood of mental health traumas.