Impacts of obstetric violence

Abstract

Objective: To analyze, through a literature review, the impact and health implications generated by obstetric violence and the repercussions on women's health.  Literature review: Obstetric violence, as defined by the WHO (2014), encompasses behaviors that are harmful to gestational health, limiting women's autonomy. Maternal care must be inclusive and safe to avoid harm to the mother and fetus. Some interventional approaches, when well indicated, are associated with a lower rate of adverse perinatal outcomes. This violence can occur regardless of the type of delivery and can involve several health professionals. Inadequate health services can increase maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality. On the other hand, proper care during childbirth and prenatal care reduces complications, such as bleeding and sepsis. Despite this, the increase in cesarean sections in Brazil, exceeding WHO recommendations, reveals challenges in obstetric health. Final considerations: These inappropriate practices negatively impact health and highlight the importance of addressing obstetric violence critically.