What is Hilary Erickson's definitive guide to managing birth trauma?

Hilary does not have a single “definitive guide” booklet, but there is a very clear approach taught across The Pregnancy Nurse content and classes. Put simply, it looks like this:

• Understand what trauma is: It is your subjective, long‑lasting emotional response to birth, even when everyone is physically “ok.”
• Learn common risk factors (fear of birth, lack of support, poor communication, previous trauma, inadequate pain relief, etc.).
• Focus on prevention where you can:
  • Get solid, non‑scary prenatal education (like The Online Prenatal Class for Couples) so you are not going in terrified or unprepared.
  • Make a flexible birth plan so you know your options but are not shattered if things change.
  • Advocate for yourself and use your partner as a trained advocate.
  • Ask to be included in decisions and have procedures explained.
• Debrief after birth: Ask “Why did X happen?” and “Could anything have been done differently?” before you leave, and again at postpartum visits.
• Use therapy early if you feel stuck, panicky, or avoidant, especially before another pregnancy.
• Move your body: regular exercise in pregnancy is linked with lower trauma risk and also helps you trust your body more.

Would you like something more step‑by‑step, like a checklist you can print and bring to your next appointment?