EPIDEMIOLOGICAL ANALYSIS OF OBSTETRIC VIOLENCE IN NORTHEASTERN BRAZIL OVER THE LAST 10 YEARS

Abstract

Obstetric violence constitutes a violation of human rights and affects the gestational experience, marked by physical, emotional, and social vulnerabilities. Disrespectful practices persist, such as interventions without consent and negligence, especially among young women with low levels of education. This study seeks to highlight the main obstacles that favor the occurrence of this violence, emphasizing the importance of humanized practices in maternal and child care. This descriptive study is based on secondary data from DATASUS, referring to 2015-2025, including variables of age group, education level, and nature of care. The data were tabulated in TabNet and analyzed using descriptive statistics. Most notifications occurred among women aged 18-24 years. A predominance of victims with completed secondary education or incomplete primary education was observed. Repeated vaginal examinations, negligence, psychological abuse, and unnecessary interventions were frequent practices. Women in economic vulnerability and with low educational levels presented a higher risk. The findings reinforce structural inequalities and the institutionalization of violence, aggravated by a lack of awareness of rights and a lack of humanization in care. The absence of companions and interventions without consent highlight persistent ethical failures. It is essential to strengthen public policies, train professionals, and promote health education to guarantee autonomy, respect, and safety during childbirth. Thus, reducing obstetric violence requires continuous and integrated actions.