This national study explored the experiences of obstetric violence reported in a 2021 survey by Australian women who had a baby in the previous 5 years.
A content analysis of 626 open text comments found 3 main categories: “I felt dehumanised;” “I felt violated;” and “I felt powerless.” Women also reported experiences of bullying; coercion; non-empathic care; and physical and sexual assault.
Content warning: Contains content that may be distressing to readers, including descriptions of physical and sexual assault.