A pilot study of eye movement desensitisation and reprocessing treatment (EMDR) for post-traumatic stress after childbirth.

OBJECTIVE

to explore the possibility of using eye movement desensitisation and reprocessing (EMDR) to treat women who have experienced post-traumatic stress after childbirth.

DESIGN

the pilot study consisted of a 'before and after' treatment design combined with follow-up measurements 1-3 years after EMDR treatment. Quantitative data from questionnaires (Traumatic Event Scale [TES]) were collected. In addition, qualitative data from individual interviews with the participants were collected as well as data from the psychotherapist's treatment notes of the EMDR treatment sessions.

SETTING

the north of Sweden.

PARTICIPANTS

four women with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) after childbirth (one pregnant and three non-pregnant).

FINDINGS

all participants reported reduction of post-traumatic stress after treatment. After 1-3 years, the beneficial effects of EMDR treatment remained for three of the four women. Symptoms of intrusive thoughts and avoidance seemed most sensitive for treatment.

IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE

EMDR might be a useful tool in the treatment of non-pregnant women severely traumatised by childbirth; however, further research is required.