Obstetric violence and the role of nursing in the promotion of humanized childbirth

Abstract

Introduction: Obstetric violence constitutes a phenomenon of significant social and scientific relevance, as it undermines the dignity and the physical and psychological integrity of women during the childbirth process, being configured as a violation of human rights and of the ethical principles that guide healthcare practices. In this context, nursing assumes a central role as a promoting agent of humanized care, bearing the responsibility to prevent and confront abusive or negligent behaviors that may constitute forms of violence in the obstetric environment. Objective: To analyze the role of nursing in the prevention of obstetric violence, based on the identification of care practices that foster the humanization of childbirth and ensure respect for women’s autonomy. Materials and method: This is an integrative literature review, with a qualitative approach, carried out through a systematic search in indexed scientific databases, aiming to select recent and pertinent publications related to the subject. Data analysis will be conducted through thematic categorization, enabling synthesis and critical interpretation of the findings. Results: It is expected to identify and systematize the main strategies adopted by nursing professionals to prevent obstetric violence, highlighting practices that value active listening, respect for the parturient’s choices, the reduction of unnecessary interventions, and the provision of physical and emotional support throughout the childbirth process. Furthermore, the relevance of ethical, technical, and humanistic training of professionals is expected to be evidenced, in order to strengthen the quality of care. Conclusions: It is considered that obstetric nursing plays an essential role in promoting humanized childbirth, being indispensable in confronting the institutional culture that still perpetuates violent practices in obstetric settings. By contributing to the strengthening of public health policies aimed at protecting women, nursing affirms itself as a protagonist in the defense of parturients’ rights and in the consolidation of care based on dignity and respect for female autonomy.