NSW birth trauma inquiry finds one-third of parents consent to medical interventions without understanding risks, and over half experience post-birth mental or physical health challenges; better communication and transparency needed.

A recent NSW birth trauma inquiry and surveys from maternity groups reveal that many women experience traumatic births due to a lack of informed consent. Families need good information about their birthing options to minimize trauma, and support after birth is essential. One-third of birting parents agreed to medical interventions without understanding the risks, while more than half experienced mental or physical health challenges after birth. Better communication between staff and patients, improved continuity of care, and greater transparency around inductions and interventions are needed to address birth trauma.

July 14, 2024
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