Medical trauma takes many forms. For example, the basic reality of suffering a serious injury or illness is potentially traumatic. The treatments and procedures are intense. On top of that, there are logistics involved in hospital stays and interventions. Healthcare workers are often stretched to their limits and, thus, subject to medical trauma. Then there’s the frightening fact that one of the primary causes of death in the U.S. is medical error.
For women, such scenarios can be particularly stressful. Women are more likely to have their health claims ignored or downplayed. Plus, with them typically carrying more of the household burden, they may be overwhelmed with guilt and worry. Let’s take a closer look.
What is Medical Trauma?
As the name implies, we’re talking about any kind of trauma that results from interacting with medical/healthcare systems. Beyond that specificity, the symptoms of medical trauma will often mirror those arising from any kind of trauma, e.g.:
Anxiety
Depression
Intrusive thoughts like flashbacks
Nightmares and other sleep disturbances
Hyper-vigilant behavior
Withdrawal and self-isolation
Diligently avoiding reminders or triggers related to medical care
Body aches and tension with no obvious cause
Digestive issues
Emotional numbness
Thoughts of self-harm
Common Causes of Medical Trauma in Women
Heart Attacks and Other Cardiac Concerns
For both men and women, heart attacks are the leading cause of death. What is not commonly discussed is that heart attack symptoms tend to be more vague and subtle for women. This can slow down treatment, cause believability issues (see below), and cause complications.
Childbirth
Birth trauma is far, far too common. Almost half the women who have given birth report experiencing some form of medical trauma. From feeling out of control within the birthing process to forced procedures, this is an ongoing medical crisis for women.
Disbelieved, Doubted, and Invalidated
Women are far more likely than men to be dismissed with a line like “It’s all in your head.” Such invalidation is a common reason why women avoid medical care, which, in turn, can increase the potential for medical problems. It is a lot of extra pressure on a woman if she has to advocate for herself while dealing with a health problem.
Cultural issues can compound the believability factor. Women of any minority group are faced with different personal treatment on many levels. Every step of the way, it increases the risk of medical trauma.
How To Heal From Medical Trauma As A Woman
The first step is to do everything in your power not to blame yourself. No woman brings medical trauma on herself, and she is never the cause of such a scenario. In addition, it is essential not to let anyone talk you out of what you feel. Trauma is in the eye of the beholder, and you do not have to justify the pain you’re experiencing. It’s not easy to stand up to the folks in the white coats, but their education does not override your reality.
It’s also vital to practice daily self-care. The steps you take each day not only rebuild your resilience but also serve as a reminder that you are valued and deserving of such attention.
Therapy Can Help Break the Negative Pattern
Your sessions are where you can work with a medical professional who hears and believes you. You can recognize that something positive can come from seeking treatment. This connection can result not only in healing but also in developing new ways to navigate the often frightening realm of health care. You can recover from medical trauma and thrive again. I’m here to help you on that healing journey. If you would like more information, please contact me or learn more about my approach to Trauma and PTSD Treatment on this website.