This Mother’s Struggle With Postpartum PTSD Has Pushed Her To Cut-Off All Pregnant Woman In Her Life, Including Family Members

Beyond the baby bump lies some hidden battles.

Jesse

• Published in Interesting
• September 1, 2023

The journey of giving birth is often hailed as one of the most magical moments in a woman's life. That moment when a new, tiny, and fragile being arrives, you can't help but feel overwhelmed with joy and love.

Yet, nestled within this narrative of wonder lies a complex reality. For some women, the path to motherhood can be marred by physical and emotional challenges, casting long shadows that affect their mental well-being.

Imagine having to deal with multiple miscarriages or a few traumatic pregnancies before finally holding your bundle of joy in your arms. It's an experience that has the ability to traumatize anyone.

Unfortunately, our narrator (OP) happens to be one of those who are battling with PTSD after a few traumatic pregnancies. However, she and her last child were able to pull through, and she hasn't been the same ever since his birth.

OP prefers to stay far away from babies; neither can she stay around visibly pregnant women without triggering some traumatic flashbacks. In her words, she gets "nausea and panic attacks" in such situations.

Recently, the family welcomed her niece's pregnancy with joy. And as much as OP is happy for the expectant mom, she has decided to stay clear of all family gatherings to protect her mental health.

This decision has not been well received by other members of the family, especially OP's mom. Apparently, her mom feels that as someone who has gone through the journey of pregnancy, she should be readily available to assist her pregnant niece.

Despite the pressure, OP has decided to prioritize her mental health over any other thing. And until she gets help from a therapist, she won't be open to taking any risks that could trigger her panic attacks.

Scroll down to find out how the story unfolds.

Let’s dig into the details

Over the years, OP has had to deal with a couple of traumatic pregnancies

All these have left OP with PTSD. In fact, she finds it difficult to be around pregnant women and babies

Now OP niece is pregnant. But rather than help out, OP has decided to withdraw from all family get-together’s for the sake of her mental health

Here’s how the Reddit community reacted to the story:

OP seriously needs therapist, ASAP!

Cutting off every pregnant woman in her life is just not feasible

“Your niece needs support right now, but it's understandable why you can't provide it.”

“NTA but in addition to getting therapy make sure your niece knows why.”

“NTA. Nobody choose to have PTSD and it doesn't get away just by wanting to.“

“Nobody should be forced to help someone or to be around someone.”

“NTA…You are providing support in the way you can.”

“NTA…You don’t jump in a lake to save someone if you can’t swim.”

The Reddit community has rallied behind OP to give her the much-needed support in this difficult time. The commenters acknowledge that it’s normal that her family won’t understand her, but regardless, she shouldn’t worry too much over it.

In addition, OP has been advised to seek therapy as soon as possible because cutting off every pregnant woman in her life might not be feasible in the long term. We do hope OP can find a way to get through this, especially with her family’s support.

If you're a mother who has won the battle against Postpartum PTSD, we'd love you to share your success story in the comments. You could just be saving a life.

Jesse