2001 Conference

THE GOOD, THE BAD AND THE UGLY: CHILDHOOD SEXUAL ABUSE AND IMPLICATIONS FOR MIDWIFERY PRACTICE

Anna McNaughton , Health Promoter, Mental Health Foundation, PO Box 13-167 Christchurch NZ, (03) 365 9432 annam@mentalhealth.org.nz

Narelle Dickinson, Psychologist, Consultation Liaison Psychiatry Service
Mater Hospital, Wooloongabba 4101 Australia, (07) 3840 1755
s301735@student.uq.edu.au

The psychological, physical and emotional effects of childhood sexual abuse can be devastating at any time in a person's life, but current research suggests this can be particularly problematic during the perinatal period.

This workshop discusses the challenges facing midwives and other health care professionals supporting women with a history of childhood sexual abuse through their pregnancies, delivery and labour, and postpartum period.

It provides a model of care ensuring optimal outcomes for the woman and her obstetric care team. Case examples and practice activities will be used to assist in illustrating the improved care this model can provide.