Dissociative experience during childbirth.

Authors :: Zambaldi CF
Cantilino A
Farias JA
Moraes GP
Sougey EB
Source :: Journal of psychosomatic obstetrics and gynaecology [J Psychosom Obstet Gynaecol] 2011 Dec; Vol. 32 (4), pp. 204-9. Date of Electronic Publication: 2011 Oct 25.
Publication Year :: 2011
Abstract: Objective: A dissociative experience refers to phenomena such as depersonalization, derealization, amnesia, out of body experience, altered time perception and body image. The aim of this study was to assess dissociative experience during childbirth and the possible related variables.<br />Method: A total of 328 women, up to 72 hours postpartum, completed the peritraumatic dissociative experience questionnaire (PDEQ), the socio-demographic and obstetrical questionnaire, the pain numeric rating scale, the Trauma History Questionnaire and an SCID-I for traumatic events.<br />Results: A total of 11.3% of the sample experienced significant dissociation. In particular, symptoms like a sensation of time changes during the event/things seemed to be happening in slow motion, not being aware of things that happened, and disorientation. A traumatic childbirth, previous trauma, obstetrical complications, forceps, prematurity, complications with the baby, dissatisfaction with the maternity care, unemployment, high score pain during labor and years of schooling were the factors considered.<br />Conclusion: Dissociative experiences can occur during childbirth.