Obstetric Violence: Prevalence and Associated Factors in Women from Southern Brazil

Unnecessary interventions during childbirth are recognized as forms of disrespect and abuse, increasing maternal and neonatal risks. We assess the prevalence and associated factors with experiences of obstetric violence (OV) among women assisted in public primary healthcare in southern Brazil. A total of 60.9% (95% CI [55.0–67.0]) of women reported some type of OV during childbirth and/or prenatal care. After adjustments for confounders, women ≥30 were less likely to experience OV, whereas vaginal delivery was associated with a 115% higher prevalence of OV than cesarean delivery. These findings highlight the need for effective strategies to prevent and address this practice.