Taboo around births

“We want compassion, a diagnosis and therapy”

Pain, urinary and faecal incontinence - a tiresome topic for many women after giving birth.(Bild: Pattarisara - stock.adobe.com)

The major Krone+ series on violence in the delivery room made waves. In addition to the serious psychological consequences, there is also physical damage that affected women can suffer for years. One reader reports on a widespread problem that also occurs after non-violent births.

The story of Celina K., who made serious accusations against a Viennese hospital in the "Krone" newspaper, led to strong reactions. She had hoped for a safe birth, but left the hospital severely traumatized. "One doctor jumped on my stomach, one cut me open," she complains. According to the young mother, she and her daughter also suffered because an opioid was administered too late. She now wants to discuss her options with the Vienna Patient Advocate's Office.

One thing is certain: For women, violence in the delivery room can mean lifelong trauma. It often leads to anxiety, depression or post-traumatic stress disorder, which can also affect mother-child interactions. However, the physical damage that can - but does not have to - be suffered during childbirth and especially during procedures such as the Kristeller maneuver can cause women months or even years of discomfort. But people rarely talk about it - the subject is fraught with shame. Marie Krüger can sing a (sad) song about it.