171 The Many Faces of Trauma | Medical & Birth Trauma: When Help Hurts

Send a text

Medical and birth trauma can happen when care meant to help also involves fear, helplessness, loss of control, or violations of consent and dignity. In this episode, we explore why “routine” experiences can still leave lasting nervous system imprints, especially when a person feels rushed, unheard, exposed, or powerless. Using simple polyvagal-informed language, we look at fight/flight and shutdown responses in medical settings, common aftereffects like avoidance of care or panic in clinics, and practical ways to reclaim choice. We close with a grounding practice that emphasises resourcing and choice—two key ingredients for nervous system safety.

In this episode, you’ll learn

• What medical and birth trauma is (beyond outcomes)
• Why consent, choice, and dignity are central nervous-system needs
• Polyvagal-informed patterns: mobilised protection vs shutdown in medical contexts
• Common signs (non-diagnostic): avoidance of care, panic in clinics, distrust, shame, disconnection
• What helps: reclaiming small choices, support scripts, debriefing, gentle body reconnection, trauma-informed support
• A short grounding practice focused on resourcing and choice

Grounding practice (2–3 minutes): “Resourced Breath + Choice Point”

• Bring to mind a neutral-to-good resource image
• Choose one breathing option (choice matters)
• Say: “Right now, I have choices” + name one small supportive choice
• Hand-on-body support: “Thank you, body, for protecting me.”

Check the website for the free resources offered for both those affected by trauma and those supporting them.

What’s next: When the Environment Is the Threat: Chronic Stress Without an Exit

Support the show

💡 If today’s episode touched you, please share it with someone who might need it.

🤝 Become a supporter of the show! Starting at $3/month & leave a review.

Stay Connected

• 🌐 Visit nathaliehimmelrich.com
• 💌 Subscribe to the newsletter for resources and updates
• 🎧 Never miss an episode—follow the podcast!
• 💛 Socials Instagram Facebook

Find Support Resources

• 💜 For Grievers – Resources
  https://nathaliehimmelrich.com/grief-trauma-support/
• 💜 For Supporters – Supporting someone https://nathaliehimmelrich.com/supporters-resources/
• 💜 Books – Explore books on grief and healing https://nathaliehimmelrich.com/books/
• 💜 Support – Offers - free and paid
  https://nathaliehimmelrich.com/free-resources-hub/