This edited collection collates research concerning the challenges and opportunities of pregnancy and the postpartum period for perinatal women who are survivors of child abuse. Drawing on empirical findings and theory, this is the first book to identify emerging and topical issues around screening and disclosure and how clinicians and professionals may help to build resilience for child abuse survivors. Pregnancy and the postpartum period present unique challenges and opportunities for clinicians and mental health professionals who may encounter pregnant women with adverse childhood experiences. Challenges include antenatal care considerations for survivors of child abuse such as triggering events that may further traumatize women or result in avoidance behaviours such as failing to engage in routine antenatal care, and other associated adverse outcomes including increased health concerns and, in some cases, prolonged labour and preterm birth. These challenges point to the need for identifying women at risk and providing sensitive care, and this book demonstrates the opportunities which arise through interventions and resilience building.

Robyn Brunton is a Senior Lecturer of psychology at Charles Sturt University, Australia. She has expertise in women’s psychosocial health and a focus on research that has positive practical application for women’s lives, particularly in overcoming adversity.

Rachel Dryer is an Associate Professor in the School of Behavioural and Health Sciences at the Australian Catholic University, Australia. She is a registered psychologist whose research interests are in health psychology, particularly on women’s mental health.