This perspective published in PLOS Medicine underscores the pervasive and systemic nature of abuse faced by women during childbirth, framing it as a critical issue of gender-based violence. The authors argue that such mistreatment is deeply rooted in structural gender inequalities that devalue women’s lives and health. The study highlights the urgent need for comprehensive, multi-country research to generate comparable data on the prevalence, risk factors, and health consequences of this mistreatment. It calls for the development of standardized measurement tools and interventions to address and mitigate these abuses. By drawing attention to the widespread neglect and abuse in maternity care, the study advocates for policy changes and increased resource allocation to ensure respectful and dignified treatment for all women during childbirth.
Journal Article