Stress and wellbeing after childbirth (STRAWB)Version 2.0

• Research type

  Research Study

• Full title

  Developing a package of care to identify and intervene with women at risk from post traumatic stress symptoms related to childbirth

• IRAS ID

  138139

• Contact name

  Pauline Slade

• Contact email

  pauline.slade@liverpool.ac.uk

• Sponsor organisation

  Liverpool Women's NHS Foundation Trust

• Research summary

  Post traumatic stress disorder is a psychological response following an event experienced as traumatic. About 3% of women giving birth experience all 3 features:(intrusions, avoidance and being on edge) but many more suffer with at least one dimension. Symptoms can adversely affect the woman and her relationship with her infant and her partner. Early after an event some intrusive experiences can be a part of adjusting to what has happened. However, where someone experiences symptoms at 6 months following a trauma then unless they receive specific treatment this is likely to become long term. Being able to identify women at risk of post traumatic stress and provide early effective treatment is therefore vital for women and their families
  This work will lay the ground for a study to compare a structured system involving identification (coupled with simple self management information) and followed by specific intervention for those with post traumatic stress symptoms against usual care.
  At the visit 21-28 days after childbirth the community midwife will complete a simple evaluation with women. Women showing evidence of early symptoms will be given some brief psycho educational information. All women with significant levels of symptoms and a small group with no significant symptoms at discharge from community midwifery care will be followed up by the researchers at 6-8weeks postnatally. Those reporting significant post traumatic stress symptoms at this point (and not having a follow up appointment with their obstetrician) will be offered an appointment with a midwife to talk through their childbirth experience. Women wishing for further input will be offered a psychological assessment and guidance on care from a clinical/counselling psychologist. Feedback from women and midwives will be incorporated throughout to gain their perspectives. The information will be used to develop a full bid to the Research for Patient Benefit funding body.

• REC name

  North West - Liverpool Central Research Ethics Committee

• REC reference

  13/NW/0803

• Date of REC Opinion

  24 Dec 2013

• REC opinion

  Further Information Favourable Opinion