NURSE AND OBSTETRIC VIOLENCE: PREVENTION STRATEGIES AND HUMANIZED CARE

Abstract

Obstetric violence is a form of social and institutional violence that violates women's dignity, autonomy, and health during pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period. It is characterized by dehumanizing practices, unnecessary interventions, verbal aggression, physical restraint, and denial of care. Despite being recognized as a public health issue, there remains a scarcity of research and a lack of conceptual consensus, which hinders the development of effective policies to address it. This study aims to analyze the role of nurses in preventing and combating this form of violence through a literature review (2020–2025). Of the 40 studies identified, 11 were included. The results indicate that nurses play a strategic role in the humanization of care by providing qualified listening, support, and respect for women's autonomy at all stages of care. The adoption of evidence-based practices and ethical training is essential to prevent abuse and strengthen women’s protagonism. It is concluded that addressing obstetric violence requires improvements in public policies, professional training, and a commitment from nursing to empathetic, ethical, and humanized practices, reaffirming its fundamental role in promoting safe, respectful, and violence-free childbirth.