Relationship between birth memories and recall and perception of traumatic birth in women in the postpartum one-year period and affecting factors

This study examines the relationship between birth memory and recall and the perception of traumatic birth in women who were a postpartum one-year period and the affecting factors. This descriptive and correlational study was conducted with 285 participants in the pediatric department of a state university medical school. Data were collected using a participant information form, Birth Memories and Recall Questionnaire, and Perception of Traumatic Childbirth Scale. In the study, it was determined that the women had a moderate level of birth memories and recall, and the rate of those with a high and very high perception of traumatic childbirth was 45.9%. According to path analysis, Birth Memories and Recall Questionnaire score and educational status (primary secondary school) have a positive and significant effect on the perception of traumatic birth. The perception of traumatic birth was a predictor that explained 17.3% of birth memories and recall. Nearly half of the study participants perceived the experience of giving birth as traumatic, and birth memories and recall were at a moderate level. Improving women's perception of education and traumatic birth will contribute to positive birth memories and to create positive emotions when they remember their birth.

Automated summary

This study examines the relationship between birth memory and recall and the perception of traumatic birth in women who were a postpartum one-year period and the affecting factors. The study found that women had a moderate level of birth memories and recall, with a high percentage perceiving traumatic childbirth. Path analysis revealed that the score of Birth Memories and Recall Questionnaire and educational status (primary secondary school) had a positive and significant effect on the perception of traumatic birth. Improving women's perception of education and traumatic birth will contribute to positive birth memories and emotions.