According to a recent study by the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), nearly 70% of women in Eastern Europe and Central Asia face various forms of mistreatment during childbirth. These alarming figures were presented in the organization's new report.
The report emphasizes that while obstetric violence is widespread, it often goes unnoticed, leading to violations of women's fundamental rights and their humiliation.
The study is based on data from an online survey involving over 2,600 women who gave birth in 16 countries and regions.
Among the findings, it is noteworthy that nearly half of the respondents (48.1%) underwent medical interventions without prior informed consent. This includes procedures such as cesarean sections, episiotomies, and the administration of oxytocin.
Among the respondents, about 24% reported verbal abuse, such as shouting and humiliation from medical staff.
One in ten women reported physical or sexual violence during childbirth or gynecological procedures. Specifically, 12% of respondents indicated restrictions on movement, including being tied to the bed and the use of rough physical force. Additionally, 10.4% of women noted that they became victims of various forms of sexual violence, including unacceptable touching and humiliating manipulation of their genitals.
However, many cases remain unreported. More than half of the survey participants (53.7%) had never heard of the term "obstetric violence," and only 2% of those who experienced mistreatment reported it officially. The reasons women do not seek help are often related to distrust in complaint mechanisms and fear of potential consequences.
In Central Asia, this issue is discussed much less frequently than in European countries.
According to the study, the highest number of women unaware of the concept of "obstetric violence" is recorded in Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Uzbekistan, where about two-thirds of respondents are not informed about this phenomenon.
The authors of the report note that cultural and social aspects of the region may partially explain the low level of discussion regarding cases of mistreatment, as traditional views on women's roles and childbirth hinder open discussions on such issues.
The level of violations varies between countries in the region. For example, in Albania, Moldova, Serbia, Tajikistan, and Kosovo, women more frequently report discrimination, as well as verbal and physical violence, and issues within the healthcare system.
“The results of this study are a troubling signal,” said Florence Bauer, UNFPA Regional Director for Eastern Europe and Central Asia.
She added that every woman has the right to quality healthcare, which must include respectful treatment.
“Obstetric violence is not only a medical issue but also a violation of human rights, leaving women in a state of helplessness and stress, which can have long-term consequences for their health and well-being,” she emphasized.
UNFPA and partners strongly urge governments and the medical community in the region to take action to combat obstetric violence.
Recommendations include developing appropriate legislation, training medical personnel, informing women of their rights, creating accountability mechanisms, and conducting public awareness campaigns.
