I joined a group for partners myself. We talked about birth trauma, avoidance, fear, and recovery. The leader reminded us that with support and communication, couples can grow stronger. Hope, once distant, began to seep in.
That night, when Ryan came home, I told him gently, “We need to talk. I followed you.” He admitted his fear and exhaustion. “I was so afraid of losing you both,” he whispered. “You don’t have to be afraid alone anymore,” I said. Slowly, he started facing Lily fully—pressing his cheek to hers, breathing in that newborn scent, love unshadowed by fear.
Two months later, we’re in counseling, attending our groups, learning to navigate the aftermath together. The nightmares come less often. When they do, we walk the hallway together, under a soft nightlight, three of us.
We didn’t get a perfect first chapter. But the chapters after? Gentler. Dark nights gave way to light. Sometimes, the face you fear the most is the one that leads you back to life—and love—the moment you almost lost.
Have you or your partner faced post-birth trauma? Share your story in the comments and let’s support each other through the hardest chapters.