Prevalence of Neglect and Abuse During Labor and Delivery in a Tertiary Hospital

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Childbirth is a significant event with a great impact on maternal physical and psychological health. Childbirth abuse has been reported in different countries with variable rates. This study aims to determine the prevalence of childbirth abuse during labor in a governmental hospital in Egypt. METHODS: This cross-sectional study was conducted from March 2020 to December 2021. We recruited 190 women. Patients were asked to fill in the Arabic-validated childbirth verbal abuse and neglect questionnaire immediately after delivery. The questionnaire consisted of four parts enquiring about personal data and childbirth history, the occurrence of physical violence, and other elements of satisfaction. RESULTS: Fifty (26.3%) patients were neglected during childbirth. Verbal abuse was reported by 25.8%. Two women (1.1%) were slapped (physical abuse) during childbirth. Women reported being satisfied and strongly satisfied at 57.9% and 37.9%, respectively. Multiparity ( p -value .02), patient ignorance about the childbirth process ( p -value .004), their rights ( p -value .0001), and lack of participation in decision-making ( p -value .0001) were associated with exposure to neglect. Verbal abuse was associated with the delivery time in addition ( p -value .004). CONCLUSION: Neglect and abuse occurred significantly at the current facility.