1 in 3 women have been sexually abused.
Paps, check ups, annual exams….
For those of us who have experienced abuse these type of visits can be quite triggering. Just the thought can cause our bodies to freeze, our throats to swell up and trigger our parasympathetic nervous system into flight or fight.
As providers we have to understand this and give time and space for healing. This might look like taking extra time to get to know you. This might mean explaining the procedure and discussing what feelings come up in your body…
Are you holding your breath?
Are you tightening your hands?
Are you feeling triggered?
Does it feel like your losing control?
What can we do to unpack these somatic responses?
What makes you feel safe?
This might mean stopping and deciding to postpone a procedure or test to a different day.
It might be a client saying yes, but there body saying no, and acknowledging and respecting that.
If you have been prolonging your pap because it is triggering, traumatic and uncomfortable you are not alone!
When you are ready, let us know, we are here to support you, and respect you in your process and the reclamation of your body autonomy.
AND it is a honor and privilege to do so.
Lots of love,
Tourmaline Midwives
