Using Trauma-Informed Principles to Improve Perinatal Care
In this course, you will explore how trauma influences perinatal health and patient engagement. You will begin by building a foundational understanding of trauma, including why some perinatal patients are at higher risk for re-traumatization in medical settings. You will then examine patterns of engagement and common responses to trauma, with opportunities to reflect on how these may appear in practice.
Building on this, you will learn how to approach trauma screening using brief, validated tools and how to respond effectively when a patient discloses trauma.
Finally, you will apply the six principles of trauma-informed care to perinatal settings. Through practical examples and model scenarios, you will identify strategies to promote safety, trust, and patient-centered care.
Every pregnancy and birth experience is unique, yet trauma can shape how care is experienced before, during, and after pregnancy. In the OB-GYN setting, you have a powerful opportunity to support healing, strengthen trust, and improve the care experience for your patients.
Learning Audience
This training is designed for health care providers and clinicians supporting perinatal patients with mental health or substance use concerns.
Learning Objectives
After completing this course, you should be able to:
- Explain how trauma can affect perinatal health and engagement.
- Describe how to screen for trauma in perinatal care settings.
- Use trauma-informed care principles to improve perinatal care.
Time to Complete
This course takes 30 to 45 minutes to complete. You can pause and resume at any time.
Authors
Brigitte McClellan, PsyD, PMH-C, IMH-E®, University of Colorado Department of Psychiatry
Shaleah Dardar, MD, MSW, University of Colorado Department of Psychiatry
Continuing Medical Education Credit
This course has been approved by the American Academy of Family Physicians for one Continuing Medical Education Credit.
This is contingent upon completion of all lessons, interactions, and the final assessment. A score of 75% or higher on the final assessment is required.
