Trauma leading to long term mental health problems (Image: Getty) One in eight mothers experienced trauma during childbirth; a shock new poll shows – with many later suffering mental health problems linked to maternity care failures. The survey found that 12 per cent of women were traumatised while giving birth, with the distress often followed by lasting psychological harm, anxiety, and fear about having more children. Researchers say the findings highlight how the impact of poor maternity care goes far beyond physical injury, with almost one in three mothers reporting mental health struggles after their childbirth experience. The figures come in the wake of major maternity safety investigations including the Nottingham hospitals inquiry – the largest in NHS history – as well as reviews into Shrewsbury and Telford, East Kent, and other trusts where serious failings, missed warnings and women not being listened to were repeatedly identified. The new polling, commissioned by Lime Solicitors, found that nearly a third (30%) of women said their childbirth experience left them with mental health issues, while 13% reported …