Adverse childhood experiences' impact on the perinatal period: a scoping review

Keys, Jenny and Folliard, Kelda (2026) Adverse childhood experiences' impact on the perinatal period: a scoping review. British Journal of Midwifery, 34 (1). ISSN 0969-4900

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Abstract

Background/Aims: Those with a history of adverse childhood experiences are known to experience worse mental health and poorer obstetric and neonatal outcomes. This scoping review explored the perinatal experiences of women with a history of adverse childhood experiences. Methods: Qualitative studies that explored lived experiences of the perinatal period for women with a history of adverse childhood experiences were included in this scoping review. Three databases, CINAHL, Medline and PsychInfo, were systematically searched for qualitative papers in June 2024 and eight papers were reviewed. Results: Three themes emerged: pregnancy as a turning point, witli the sub-theme of the pregnancy identity; interpersonal connections; and experiences of maternity care, with the sub-themes trust and judgement and control and triggers. Conclusions: For women with a background of adverse childhood experiences, the perinatal period may be experienced uniquely, with notions around their sense of identity and relationships shaped by their past. Implications for practice Caregivers should actively deliver and promote trauma-informed care to account for potential vulnerabilities and enable a positive perinatal experience.

Item Type:	Article
Additional Information:	Data sharing: Data are available from the authors on reasonable request.
Uncontrolled Keywords:	adverse childhood experiences,childhood trauma,maternity care,perinatal experiences,pregnancy
Faculty \ School:	Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences > School of Health Sciences
UEA Research Groups:	Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences > Research Centres > Mental Health and Social Care (fka Lifespan Health)
Depositing User:	LivePure Connector
Date Deposited:	05 Jan 2026 13:30
Last Modified:	11 Jan 2026 07:30
URI:	https://ueaeprints.uea.ac.uk/id/eprint/101516
DOI:	10.12968/bjom.2024.0118

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