Unrecognised Violence: when women face obstetric abuse in childbirth

Andrea Steckel-Jiang

Published on: 24/11/2025

Obstetric violence is not a new concept. It happens when a woman is mistreated, disrespected, or harmed during pregnancy, birth, or postpartum care. It is any behaviour that strips her of dignity, autonomy, or the right to decide what happens to her own body.