Exploring the status of respectful maternity care: A mixed-method systematic review

Introduction: Receiving respectful maternity care (RMC) is the right of pregnant women on humanitarian grounds; however, disrespect and abuse are more prevalent at all levels across the world. Thus, this review sought to assess the current state and most prevalent forms of disrespectful maternity care experienced by pregnant women in India. Material and Methods: A comprehensive review of multiple databases was conducted systemically. Following the quality review, twelve quantitative research and two qualitative studies were included. Results: Study revealed that physical and verbal abuse is the most frequently encountered form of disrespect faced by pregnant women. Regardless of the type of healthcare setting—whether primary, secondary, or tertiary, and across both government and private sectors—disrespectful care was reported in various regions, including Northern, Eastern, Northeastern, and Western India. The lack of dignity, delivery by unqualified staff, a loss of privacy, the demand for informal fees, additionally, there is significant deficiency in basic infrastructure, cleanliness, and sanitation, were other factors that were noted. We also found that the situation of women has even worsened during the COVID-19 pandemic period. Conclusion: RMC should be prioritized to give great care to pregnant mothers. To do that a sustainable change in policy level is needed. It is critical to facilitate women-centric care, enhance infrastructure, train healthcare staff on a regular basis, and educate pregnant women about RMC.