Relationship between the perception of disrespectful treatment and abuse during childbirth and the risk of postpartum post-traumatic stress disorder: a PPQ-based study.

PROBLEM: Childbirth is often portrayed as a positive and empowering experience, yet for many women, it can result in negative emotional outcomes, which may contribute to the development of postpartum Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Understanding the association between perceived abuse during childbirth and PTSD is crucial for improving maternal care.

BACKGROUND

Research shows that disrespectful and abusive treatment during childbirth is linked to psychological distress and PTSD. However, the correlation between perceived abuse and PTSD in postpartum women remains underexplored.

AIM: To determine the association between the woman's perception of abuse during childbirth and the risk of developing PTSD postpartum, as well as to analyze related risk factors.

METHODS

A cross-sectional observational study was conducted with 2,912 women in Spain who gave birth in the last 18 months. The Childbirth Abuse and Respect Evaluation- Maternal Questionnaire (CARE-MQ) assessed perceived abuse, while the Perinatal PTSD Questionnaire (PPQ) measured PTSD risk. Logistic regression was used to adjust for confounders.

FINDINGS: Higher CARE-MQ scores were positively correlated with PTSD risk, especially in the "inadequate treatment by professionals" dimension (r = 0.56). Extreme perception of abuse (≥95th percentile) increased the PTSD risk (aOR = 34.72). Additional risk factors included extremely premature birth, unrespected birth plans, complications, type of birth and emergency cesarean sections.

DISCUSSION: Perceived mistreatment and inadequate professional care strongly correlate with PTSD risk.

CONCLUSION

Addressing these factors-along with other identified risks-may help reduce PTSD prevalence and improve maternal care experiences.