Obstetric violence: Learn to identify and denounce

The expert explains what are the signs of obstetric violence and the measures that should be taken to be a victim

The complaint against Dr. Wesley Timana Yovera, known on social networks as “Dr. Stork”, accused of having caused serious injuries to a mother and a child during childbirth, rekindled the debate on obstetric violence In Brazil. Even with the progress of legislation and greater awareness of the rights of pregnant women, this form of abuse remains present in public and private hospitals, often silently, masked by normal practices.

The Perinatal Psychologist Rafaela Schiavo, founder of the Materline Institute, explains that it is difficult to immediately recognize obstetric violence. In many cases, the woman realizes only what days, months or even years after childbirth lived.

“Interventions such as the application of synthetic oxytocin, known as” Sorinho “, to stimulate the contractions and achievement of episiotomies without scientific evidence of their needs are often performed without the informed consent of the women”, underlines the expert. He also warns Kristeller’s maneuver when he presses the pregnant woman’s belly to accelerate birth. The procedure can cause serious physical and emotional damage, but it is still normally accepted due to the lack of information.

Color women are the main victims

Recent studies of the Oswaldo Cruz (Fiocruz) Foundation reveal that 45% of the women interviewed reported having undergone a sort of obstetric violence. The research, which has covered more than 24,000 women in 465 maternity in Brazil between 2020 and 2023, revealed that the women of color, with low education and users of the unified health system (on), are the most vulnerable to this practice. Schiavo underlines that “statistics show the urgent need for greater awareness and effective public policies”.

Some Brazilian states, such as Ceará, Federal District and Pará, have already implemented laws to protect women from obstetric violence. Furthermore, law no. 14.721, sanctioned in November 2023, expanded assistance to women and mother in pregnancy, guaranteeing psychological support during pregnancy, childbirth and postpartum. According to the psychologist, “this law is an important progress because it provides psychological support to women at such a vulnerable moment. But it is still essential that pregnant women know their rights so that they can identify and denounce any form of abuse”.

How to avoid being a victim of obstetric violence?

Knowing the rights of every pregnant woman is an important detail to prevent obstetric violence. According to the psychologist, although it is important to maintain a clear history of conversations and interventions, each patient has the right to request and access his medical record after delivery. In this way, it can live the moment of delivery with peace of mind, knowing that it can review what happened later.

Patients also have the right to choose those who follow them during childbirth. They also have the right that healthcare professionals inform them about all the procedures that will perform and refuse any intervention with which they do not feel comfortable. In addition, professionals should offer pain relief and treat them with respect and dignity during the process.

What to do if you were a victim?

The first step if the patient believes that the doctor has acted negligently or unresolved during childbirth is to speak with the medical team. Clarify that it does not consent to that treatment. If the situation does not improve, request the presence of a lawyer or make a formal registration of what happened as soon as possible.

It is also possible to report obstetric violence even after the accident. The victim can report the case to the hospital’s civic defender, consult a specialized lawyer or ask for support from support groups. In more serious situations, the complaint can be filed at the Regional Council of Medicine or the Police Station.

Source: Terra

Ben

Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.