At the Australasian Birth Trauma Association (ABTA), we are committed to addressing the lack of comprehensive birth-related education for both parents and clinicians. Our recent feature in RANZCOG’s Spring edition of O&G magazine sheds light on this crucial issue.
In 2022, we conducted a survey of 1,005 parents who had given birth in the last five years, and the results were eye-opening. One in three respondents agreed to birth interventions without fully understanding the risks involved. Even more concerning, only 34% of healthcare professionals discussed pelvic organ prolapse or nerve damage, and just 43% mentioned the possibility of incontinence or severe tearing.
These gaps in information have a profound impact on birthing experiences and contribute to birth-related trauma. We believe informed consent should go beyond providing information—it should involve listening to parents, answering questions, and empowering them to make decisions that align with their values and needs.
In our work, we emphasise collaboration between parents and clinicians to ensure birth education is evidence-based, transparent, and respectful of individual preferences.
To read the full article, visit RANZCOG’s O&G magazine.
We invite healthcare professionals to explore our ThinkNatal resources and CPD-accredited training to better support informed birth and reduce trauma. Together, we can make a difference in maternity care.
