Kristy Keefe (pictured) was 29 years old when she gave birth to her first child. She was sent from her hospital while in active labour, dismissed as an anxious first-time mother. Kristy gave birth on her hallway floor at home without medical support. She haemorrhaged and ended up with a 4th degree tear.

No one followed up. She received no care. Trying to deal with the physical and mental trauma while also managing all the emotions of welcoming a new baby, Kristy developed postnatal depression, anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder. 

At her lowest point, Kristy thought about ending her life.

It took her 10 months to find the support she desperately needed. Five years on, she still has ongoing medical issues and requires regular pelvic physiotherapy.

 “I would like women to be able to have a women’s physio examination and further treatment post birth, more access to mental health facilities for women suffering from trauma and mental health challenges, support groups and for the medical professionals not to ignore us and listen as we 100% know our bodies.”

Kristy’s story is not uncommon. 1 in 3 women experience birth-related trauma. Research shows that around 1 in 4 first-time mothers, between 15,000 and 30,000 women in Australia every year, suffer major, irreversible injuries like pelvic floor muscle or anal sphincter tears. Many more go undiagnosed.

Birth injuries include: vaginal/perineal tears, pelvic floor damage, uterine infections, fistulas, prolapse, nerve damage, fractured bones and more. These injuries can lead to lifelong pain, incontinence, sexual problems, and serious mental health impacts like anxiety, depression, and PTSD.

Despite how common and serious these injuries are, Australia still has:

No national clinical guidelines for the treatment of birth injuries

No standard diagnostic process so that women + can get the care that they need and deserve

No coordinated recovery care based on peoples individual needs

No specific funding for birth trauma or birth injury services.

Because of this, many people don’t get diagnosed, treated, or supported. They suffer in silence, often for years. This affects not just their health, but also their ability to care for their baby, return to work, and maintain relationships.

Birth Trauma Australia is calling on the government to fund:

• Standardised postpartum care pathways, including Medicare-backed postpartum care and pelvic physio
• Trauma-informed training for all perinatal care providers
• A national referral system connecting hospitals, GPs and specialists

Please sign the petition. Help make sure no one faces birth trauma alone.