OBSTETRIC VIOLENCE: THE ROLE OF NURSING IN PROMOTING HUMANIZED CARE

Abstract

Introduction: Obstetric violence remains present in health services, constituting a violation of women's rights through disrespectful, abusive, or negligent practices during prenatal care, childbirth, and the postpartum period, affecting the physical and emotional health of women as well as newborn well-being. This study aimed to analyze the role of nursing in providing humanized care in situations of obstetric violence. Methodological Aspects: This is an integrative literature review conducted in the SciELO, LILACS, and PubMed databases, using the descriptors “obstetric violence,” “humanized childbirth,” “causes of obstetric violence,” and “nursing care.” Articles published in Portuguese, available in full, free of charge, and published between 2020 and 2025 were included. Results: A total of 378 studies were identified, of which 18 met the eligibility criteria and were systematized in a chart containing author, year, objective, methodology, and main findings. Conclusion: The findings indicate that obstetric violence is frequent and generates long-lasting emotional, physical, and social impacts. Gaps persist in the implementation of humanized childbirth and in professional qualification, highlighting the need for continuing education and greater awareness within health services. Nursing plays a central role in preventing obstetric violence through ethical, empathetic, and woman-centered practice based on respect for women’s rights and autonomy.