OBSTETRIC VIOLENCE AND ITS CONSEQUENCES IN THE POSTPARTUM PERIOD FROM THE PERSPECTIVE OF THE OBSTETRIC NURSE

Abstract

Introduction: Obstetric violence manifests through dehumanized practices, unnecessary interventions, and disrespect for women's autonomy during the pregnancy-puerperal cycle, constituting a serious violation of human rights and a public health issue. Objective: To describe the factors that lead obstetric violence to be a traumatic agent in the postpartum period. Methodology: This is an integrative literature review with a qualitative approach, conducted in the Virtual Health Library (VHL) using the descriptors "Humanization", "Obstetric violence", and "User embracing". After applying inclusion and exclusion criteria, 12 scientific articles were selected for analysis. Analysis and discussion of results: The findings show that negligence, aggressive communication, excessive medicalization, and invasive procedures without consent cause profound physical and psychological impacts. These traumatic practices result in feelings of humiliation and helplessness, predisposing postpartum women to Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, and difficulties in maternal-infant bonding. Conclusion: Disrespect and mistreatment turn birth into a devastating experience. It is imperative to implement continuing education programs and raise awareness among health professionals to ensure humanized, safe, and equity-based obstetric care.