Becoming a mother is a wonderful experience, but for some women this moment also becomes painful and humiliating. Worldwide, one in eight women faces 'labor room violence' during delivery. This shocking information has come to light from a study conducted at Columbia University.
According to the study, 13.4% of women who became mothers for the first time in 2020 said that they faced abuse during delivery. This abuse can take many forms, including:
* Ignoring by doctors during labor
* Ignoring or responding late to requests for help.
* Yelling or scolding during delivery
* Threatening to stop treatment
* Use of abusive language
*Doing vaginal test without consent
* Applying pressure for C-section
* Unmarried women are the biggest victims
The study found that unmarried women face the most abuse. Additionally, women who give birth on medical insurance, are obese, or suffer from mental health problems are also at greater risk of abuse.
Impact of Labor Room Violence
Labor room violence can have a profound impact on the physical and mental health of women. This can increase pain and problems during delivery, as well as lead to mental health problems like depression, anxiety and PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder).
Awareness and legal protection necessary
It is important to raise awareness on this serious issue and educate women about their rights. Besides, legal protection is also necessary to prevent labor room violence. Women should be encouraged to report incidents of abuse and demand appropriate action. It is a collective responsibility to ensure that all women have a safe and dignified delivery experience.
(PC: Frepeik)
