Trauma's Impact on Reproductive Health Explored in New Study

Strategic Insights -

A recent study published in the Journal of Reproductive Health has shed light on the intricate relationship between trauma and reproductive health. Researchers from the University of California San Diego (UCSD) have investigated the application of the Trauma and Resilience-informed Inquiry for Adversity, Distress, and Strengths (TRIADS) framework in sexual and reproductive health settings. The study aims to equip clinicians with the necessary tools to identify and respond to patients' trauma histories, promoting a more comprehensive and compassionate approach to care.

Key Takeaways:

  • The TRIADS framework is a trauma-informed approach that enables clinicians to inquire about patients' adversity, assess distress, and identify strengths.
  • The study, led by Megha Shankar and her team, involved developing and evaluating a TRIADS-based training program for sexual and reproductive health clinicians.
  • A total of 117 webinar participants and 15 collaborative learning group participants completed an online survey, demonstrating a significant increase in comfort with trauma screening and response.
  • Most (80-93%) of the collaborative learning group participants cared for patients with risk factors for trauma, including substance use, unstable housing, and intimate partner violence.
  • The study found a meaningful impact of applying the TRIADS framework to sexual and reproductive healthcare, with participants reporting increased comfort and decreased burnout over time.
  • Clinicians reported time and burnout as major barriers to trauma inquiry in sexual and reproductive healthcare, highlighting the need for sustainable and supportive training programs.

Statistics:

  • 90% of webinar participants were 'likely' or 'very likely' to use TRIADS in their clinical practice.
  • 13% of collaborative learning group participants reported previous formal training on trauma inquiry or response.
  • 80-93% of collaborative learning group participants cared for patients with risk factors for trauma.
  • A significant increase in comfort with respondent to patients' trauma disclosure, applying the TRIADS framework, and performing a trauma-informed pelvic exam was observed among collaborative learning group participants.

Sources:

  • Shankar, M., et al. "Trauma inquiry and response in sexual and reproductive health settings: collaborative learning among clinicians." Reproductive Health (2025), 22(1):1-16.
  • University of California San Diego (UCSD). "Data from University of California San Diego (UCSD) Broaden Understanding of Reproductive Health (Trauma inquiry and response in sexual and reproductive health settings: collaborative learning among clinicians)." OBGYN & Reproduction Week. October 20, 2025; p 48.