ABSTRACT
Experiencing distress throughout the pregnancy and/or a traumatic birth or stress can impact the growing attachment that forms between the birthing parent and the baby. There can be triggers around birthdates, due dates, and remembering the birth and/or conception process. Trying to separate these feelings from the relationship with the baby can be challenging for some. Alternatively, some parents may find their birth experience was traumatic and yet they may be deeply connected and attached to their baby. This chapter explores the complexity of forging a bond with the baby, both in utero and postpartum. While trauma and stress can have an impact, skills are taught to promote and strengthen the bond. This chapter promotes hope, supportively highlighting throughout what positive things the parent is already doing to connect with their baby and reviewing key concepts of self-compassion connected with parenting and attachment. Throughout, the reader is reminded that bonding is a process that unfolds with time and action.
