A new study has revealed that women who suffer a miscarriage or an ectopic pregnancy may be at risk of developing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The UK study, which was published in the BMJ Open Journal, looked at 113 women who had recently suffered a miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy; most had suffered a miscarriage within the first three months of their pregnancy, while 20 per cent had suffered an ectopic pregnancy.
PTSD is an anxiety disorder that can occur after a stressful event, such as a car crash or an act of violence. Symptoms range from nightmares to high blood pressure and panic attacks. The study found that in total, 38 per cent of respondents had symptoms of PTSD three months after losing their baby. Nearly a third of those affected said that their symptoms had impacted on their work life, while 40 per cent said that their personal relationships had been adversely affected. The researchers concluded that women should be routinely screened for PTSD following a miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy.
It also proves the need for good support following the loss of a pregnancy – at any stage. If you’ve been affected by an ectopic pregnancy, get support at Ectopic Pregnancy Ireland. For advice and support following a miscarriage, contact the Miscarriage Association of Ireland.