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Research Paper | Obstetrics and Gynecology | India | Volume 12 Issue 5, May 2023

Disrespect and Abuse during Childbirth: A Quest for Respectful Maternity Care

Bharathi K R | Monika Bhaskar K

Abstract: Background: Respectful maternity care during childbirth has been called, "care coordinate and given to all women in a manner that maintains their dignity, privacy and confidentiality, ensures freedom from harm and mistreatment, and allows informed choice and continuous support during labor and childbirth." Objectives: The aim of this study is to synthesize comprehensive evidence on the nature and extent of disrespect and abuse (D&A), contributing factors, and consequences of disrespectful and abusive intrapartum care from the women's and providers' perspectives and to forward recommendations. Material and methods: The study was conducted from October 2020 to October 2021 at a tertiary care hospital, Adichunchanagiri institute of medical sciences, B G Nagara, Karnataka. The findings were grouped, interpreted, and summarized into categories. Results: The overall prevalence of non - respectful care at the health care facilities in the study area is very high (44.9%). The highest rates seen in non consulted care 70% followed by non confidential care 64.7%. Least rates was noted in detention in facility is 8.3%. Conclusion: To address this alarming problem, participation in empowering and educating of women on their rights and expectations during the childbirth, creating conducive environments for health care providers is necessary.

Keywords: abuse, disrespectful, childbirth, maternity care, respectful maternity care

Edition: Volume 12 Issue 5, May 2023,

Pages: 1837 - 1841