ABSTRACT
In the literature, a 'normal' childbirth event is heralded as the gold standard; a birth imbued with personal and spiritual growth and positive adaption to the parenting role. The knowledge that adversity can lead to growth and renewal is archaic. Stressful, difficult events, such as childbirth, can lead to symptoms of post-traumatic stress and/or a clinical diagnosis of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The knowledge that adversity can lead to growth and renewal is archaic. Stressful, difficult events, such as childbirth, can lead to symptoms of post-traumatic stress and/or a clinical diagnosis of PTSD. The most recent clinical definition of a traumatic event is one in which the individual has directly or indirectly been exposed to actual or threatened death, serious injury or sexual violation, and which has caused significant distress and impaired functioning. Appreciation of life concerns how people re-evaluate and set new priorities based on what is important in their lives.
