OBSTETRIC VIOLENCE IN THE CONTEMPORARY CONTEXT AND CHALLENGES FOR THE HUMANIZATION OF CHILDBIRTH CARE

Abstract

Obstetric violence in the contemporary context constitutes an important problem related to the quality of women's health care and the protection of their rights during pregnancy, labor, childbirth, and the postpartum period. This study is characterized as a qualitative literature review and aims to analyze the main manifestations of obstetric violence and the challenges involved in consolidating humanized, safe, and woman-centered childbirth care. The research was conducted through the review and analysis of scientific publications and documents related to obstetric care, women's rights, and childbirth humanization practices. The findings indicate that obstetric violence may manifest through interventions performed without adequate indication or consent, painful or unnecessary procedures, restriction of autonomy, inadequate communication, neglect, discrimination, and disrespectful treatment. The prevention of these practices depends on continuous professional training, strengthened communication and informed consent, appreciation of scientific evidence, and women's active participation in decisions concerning childbirth. It is concluded that humanizing obstetric care requires institutional and professional changes capable of integrating clinical safety, respect, supportive care, autonomy, and the protection of reproductive rights.