OBSTETRIC VIOLENCE: CARE PRACTICES AND CONSEQUENCES FOR MATERNAL PHYSICAL AND MENTAL HEALTH – AN INTEGRATIVE REVIEW

Abstract

Obstetric violence is a significant public health issue characterized by abusive, disrespectful, or unnecessary healthcare practices during pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period, negatively impacting women’s physical and mental health. This study aimed to analyze healthcare practices that constitute obstetric violence and their impacts on maternal health. This is an integrative literature review with a qualitative and descriptive approach. The search was conducted in the Scientific Electronic Library Online (SciELO) and PubMed/MEDLINE databases through structured search strategies. Articles published between 2021 and 2025 in Portuguese and English were included. After applying the eligibility criteria, 14 studies comprised the final sample. The results showed that obstetric violence manifests through interventions without clinical indication, lack of consent, negligence, and disrespect for women’s autonomy, being associated with physical complications, postpartum impairments, and psychological impacts such as postpartum depression and post-traumatic stress disorder. It is concluded that the adoption of humanized practices based on scientific evidence, combined with the qualified performance of the nursing team, is essential for preventing obstetric violence, promoting women’s protagonism and a safer, more respectful childbirth experience.