Dear users, if you are aware of relevant global research that is not included in our database and relates to obstetric violence, we invite you to write to us at cm@respectfulcare.eu. We accept open-source research from any country in the world. Your collaboration is essential to enrich our collection and support researchers worldwide. Likewise, if you find any errors, please do not hesitate to contact us. Thank you in advance for your cooperation.
AUSTRALIA
Hazel Keedle , Warren Keedle, and Hannah G. Dahlen
Globally, a significant number of women report experiencing obstetric violence (OV) during childbirth. The United Nations has identified OV as a form of gendered violence. OV can be perpetrated by any healthcare professional (HCP) and is influenced by systemic issues such as HCP education, staffing ratios, and lack of access to continuity of care. The current study examined the experiences of OV reported in a national survey conducted in 2021 by Australian women who had given birth in the previous five years. A content analysis of 626 open-text comments revealed three main categories: “I felt dehumanized,” “I felt violated,” and “I felt powerless.” Women reported instances of bullying, coercion, non-empathic care, and physical and sexual assault. The subcategories with the most comments were disrespect and abuse, as well as non-consented vaginal examinations.
