Perceptions of Optimal Health after Pre/Perinatal Experiences: An Exploratory Study

Objective: To describe the subjective characteristics of optimal health (OH) of
persons who have done pre- and perinatal psychology study and/or experiential work around early trauma.
Study Design: Quantitative 20-item forced-choice questionnaires’ total scores (t test) and/or a qualitative openended question with the results analyzed. Participants: Sixty-nine members of APPPAH. Results: Before and
after ratings were significantly different (p <.05). Qualitatively, pre- and perinatal themes were an important
precursor to optimal health; and were seen as one part of a holistic view of health. Two of sixty-nine participants
reported no difference. Conclusions: Meaningful life changes leading to improved health based on pre- and
perinatal psychology study and/or trauma experiential work appears to be beneficial for achieving perceptions of
optimal health.