Factors associated with obstetric violence and its impacts on parturient women

Abstract

Objective: To identify institutional and cultural factors in the literature that influence the practice of obstetric violence and understand their impacts. Methods: This is an integrative literature review, searched through the LILACS, BDENF, MEDLINE, and PubMed databases, from 2020 to 2025. Results: Thirteen articles that met the inclusion criteria were identified, of which 12 had level of evidence 6 and one study had level of evidence 5. It was identified that obstetric violence manifests itself in different ways, ranging from physical to psychological, and is often related to social determinants of health, mostly involving institutional and cultural factors. The results reinforce that women in situations of social vulnerability, such as low education and low income, are more exposed to obstetric violence. Final considerations: Obstetric violence is a complex and multifactorial phenomenon, supported by institutional and cultural structures that still require transformation. Promoting obstetric care based on respect, dignity and women's autonomy is essential to ensure ethical and safe care.