Bonding and Breastfeeding after Traumatic Birth

Author: Dr Ute Taschner

Summary

Traumatic birth experiences are not a rarity, affect a relevant proportion of all birthing women and can influence breastfeeding, mother–infant bonding, and the entire family system. Mothers with birth-related post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are less likely to initiate breastfeeding and more likely to wean early. The mechanisms are multifaceted: hormonal dysregulation, trauma reactivation, avoidance behaviour, and psychosocial stressors play a role. At the same time, trauma-informed breastfeeding support can strengthen not only breastfeeding success but also bonding and healing. Midwives and lactation consultants are often the first to recognize warning signs and can provide targeted support.
The following article discusses the scientific background, presents practical approaches to trauma-informed care, and provides concrete recommendations for counselling practice.

Keywords: traumatic birth, post-traumatic stress disorder, trauma informed care, breastfeeding, bonding

How to cite: Taschner U: Bonding and Breastfeeding after Traumatic Birth. Lactation & Breastfeeding 2025;4:06.

Author Information and Disclosure of Conflicts of Interest

Ute TaschnerDr. med. Ute Taschner is a physician with over 20 years of professional experience, including in obstetrics, and she is an expert in post-traumatic birth support. As a mother of four children, author, and medical journalist, she combines medical expertise with personal authenticity. She is a stress mentor and resilience trainer and offers certified professional training for healthcare providers on trauma-informed support after difficult births as well as preparation for natural birth after caesarean section.
More information: https://www.geburt-nach-kaiserschnitt.de/wenn-die-geburt-zum-trauma-wird/

The author declares that she has no conflicts of interest or financial relationships with commercial products.