Is EMDR safe during Pregnancy?
This is a common question asked by both therapists and patients alike. Currently, there is no evidence to suggest that EMDR is contraindicated during any stage of pregnancy. In fact, untreated mental health conditions appear to be more detrimental to both mother and fetus or infant that far outweigh and negative effects of treatment. While some treatments have adverse side effects that can negatively impact the developing fetus, there’s no evidence that leads experts to believe that this is true for EMDR therapy.
While pregnancy is a vulnerable time, many women who are pregnant are treated as though they’re fragile. Sometimes this results in providers withholding interventions that are actually very beneficial to both the mother and her baby. This is certainly the case when it comes to psychotherapy. The earlier we can treat and resolve mental health issues, the better the prognosis for the entire family unit. Untreated mental health issues are known to lead to poorer outcomes for infants and their mothers. Given this, pregnancy (and prior to conception) are optimal times to focus on improving our emotional well-being.
EMDR during pregnancy can be used to address a number of concerns including:
Previous pregnancy loss or termination
Previous birth or postpartum trauma
Childhood trauma
Relational or intimate partner distress
Health-related anxiety Phobias or fears of medical procedures
Fears related to labor and childbirth
EMDR is a collaborative treatment that takes into account the need for preparation and resources before certain distressing memories are addressed. This should involve the clinician and the patient working together to address when the patient is prepared to engage in trauma reprocessing and what specific memories or issues are the focus of treatment.
EMDR is a supported treatment for Postpartum PTSD by Postpartum Support International and the Postpartum Health Alliance.
If you’re interested in learning more about EMDR during pregnancy from experts in the field, I highly recommend this video and this podcast.
