(127) TRAUMA INFORMED CARE TO REDUCE ANTEPARTUM COMPLICATIONS IN SURVIVORS OF TRAUMA

Abstract

Abstract Introduction Life trauma permeates through society and across cultures. It impacts the individual, community, and society. Trauma may include but is not limited to adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), sexual assault and violence, domestic violence, and interpersonal violence (IPV). In the United States, 1 in 3 women experience physical IPV, 1 in 4 experience sexual assault, and 17% of adults have experienced 4 or more ACEs (CDC 2022, 2023). Experiencing trauma leads to a cascade of effects that infiltrate every aspect of life and causes higher levels of chronic stress. In those who are pregnant or giving birth, a history of trauma, particularly sexual assault, leads to adverse antepartum outcomes. Objective After this presentation, the learner will be able to: 1. Define trauma (ACEs, sexual assault, DV, IPV). 2. State the signs and symptoms of trauma. 3. Identify the antepartum complications associated with a history of trauma. 4. Explain the impact that a history of sexual assault has on the birth giver. 5. Define trauma informed care. 6. Identify the components of trauma informed care. 7. State the importance of using trauma informed care as a midwife and WHNP. Methods The methods used to address this topic include a literature review and podium style presentation of findings. Results Main findings include increased rates of miscarriage, preterm birth, post traumatic stress disorder, placental abruption, premature rupture of membranes, and low birth weight in pregnant survivors of past trauma. Additionally, the dynamic interplay between the Social Determinants of Health and violence experienced during pregnancy must be considered. Low household income, racism, lack of social support, as well as food and housing insecurity increased rates of intimate partner violence experienced during pregnancy. Trauma informed care has been shown to reduce psychological symptom severity and has been integrated into midwifery care to attempt to reduce these outcomes and prevent further traumatization of the client. Conclusions As pregnancy and childbirth are intimate and personal in nature, using a trauma informed model of care is crucial to identifying clients with trauma histories and caring for them in a manner that is cognizant of their lived experiences and potential antepartum outcomes. Future providers must receive adequate education and training regarding trauma informed care in an effort to prevent adverse outcomes and prevent re-traumatization of their clients. Disclosure No.