The Impact of Childhood Sexual Abuse on Childbearing and Breastfeeding: The Role of Maternity Caregivers

Abstract

This article is not a research study but rather a review of current understanding of the effects of childhood sexual abuse on the childbearing woman. Approximately one in four women has experienced early sexual abuse. Such a history can affect a woman's relationships with loved ones and care providers, contribute to her fears of labor and birth, and affect her ability to attach to her baby. It continues to challenge her on issues of breastfeeding and parenting. Care providers can benefit by recognizing some typical indicators of an abuse history and some of the elements in perinatal care that may become triggers for memories or adverse reactions for survivors of abuse, as well as learn some strategies for helping them. There are specific suggestions to help women survivors suffering with anxiety related to breastfeeding. How to recognize or ask about a history of sexual abuse and how to make it safe emotionally for a woman to share her story or disclose her fears are important so that the provider can collaborate with the woman to avoid re-traumatization.