Despite many calls for better birth experiences we start 2026 with headlines that Australian practices around birth are failing women. Unfortunately a global problem and not exclusive to Australia. I have reported, written and spoken about birth trauma for over a decade. Women and their infants suffer daily, professionals declare not enough is known, not recognised and no data exists to quantify the percentage of women affected, with a suspected 70% of women being affected. A

The contact between mother and child should not be interrupted immediately after birth.  Those few moments (30-60minutes) are very important. The first 15 minutes, when oxytocin is apparent and the love hormone is being released, are critical for bonding and recognition.    Many trials have shown the benefits of a baby being left with mum to bond after birth. However because of the high levels of clinical intervention today, this no longer happens in many cases.    o   Shown

The Hidden Error For too long, birth trauma has been dismissed, hidden under labels of “baby blues,” “colic,” or “just hormones.” But this underestimated perception is costing individuals, families health, ripple impacts on family unit, siblings, income. Underlying in teen mental health, self-esteem, anxiety from complex birth trauma, including early suicide. What health professionals fail to acknowledge is that birth experience ripples into childhood, adulthood and society i

Mental health week brought a second involvement of government with charity SANDS and Tommy’s promoting political loud noise about pregnancy loss and miscarriage. Presenting to MP’s and government representatives a SANDS/Tommy’s joint policy to help prevent miscarriage and still births. Reality data was presented to the government representatives a cry for awakening and action for women and children. Pregnancy loss continues at unacceptable levels. Preterm births rate 8% of a