Birth trauma and/or birth loss - which services can offer psychological help?

If someone is experiencing mental health difficulties as a result of birth trauma and / or birth loss, but has not received any help to date, there are a wide range of services that can provide therapies, support and advice to people and their families.

Publication date:
01 March 2021
Date range:
March 2021 - March 2022

Kent Psychosexual Therapy Service

Some people experience a significant psychological and psychosexual impact from pregnancy and birth, including perinatal trauma. This service aims to treat and support people when a psychosexual problem has been identified. These may include severe fear of childbirth, avoidance of sex, difficulty reconnecting to the sexual self post-delivery and adjustment to body changes during pregnancy or in the postpartum period.

Following assessment, if the person is suitable for the service, they will be offered a series of 45-minute therapy sessions, with treatment programmes being tailored to individual need.

Appointments are spaced appropriately to allow for self-reflection, inter-session work and for change to occur. Anyone requiring the service must be referred by their midwife, GP, consultant or other health professional.

For more information please email kcht.pst@nhs.net

You can also contact a clinician directly prior to sending the referral to discuss appropriateness if needed, contact: 07870 831866.