A Scoping Review of Women’s Experiences of Obstetric Violence in the United States

Abstract

Objective

To review the existing literature to explore women’s experiences of obstetric violence in the United States and identify gaps in the literature and areas for future research.

Data Sources

A literature search was conducted using CINAHL Ultimate, PubMed, and APA PsycINFO databases in September 2025. The search string consisted of (Obstetric∗ violence OR obstetric∗ mistreatment OR obstetric∗ abuse OR obstetric∗ harm) AND (Experience OR Perception OR Exposure OR Encounter OR Attitude∗) AND (United States OR US OR USA OR America∗).

Study Selection

Inclusion criteria included (a) qualitative studies conducted in the United States, (b) focused on the experience of birthing women, (c) participants were older than 17 years, and (d) peer-reviewed journal article published in English within the past 5 years. Articles that focused on health care providers’ viewpoints were excluded. A two-reviewer process was completed using Covidence systematic review software. Six articles met the inclusion and were included in this review.

Data Extraction

Data were extracted from the six included articles into a literature matrix.

Data Synthesis

Data were synthesized using the following emergent themes: (a) Epistemic and Identity-Based Violence, (b) Institutional and Organizational Oppression, (c) Erosion of Maternal Autonomy and Bodily Integrity, and (d) Disrupted Maternal Transition and Postpartum Neglect.

Conclusion

Findings from this review suggest that obstetric violence is normalized during childbirth in the United States. Addressing obstetric violence requires not only individual provider reform but also systemic restructuring toward humanized, individualized, equitable, and trauma-informed maternity care. Nurses can practice trauma-informed and person-centered care, screen for psychosocial effects of previous obstetric mistreatment, use culturally responsive communication, and act as institutional advocates. Continued research, education, and policy reform are essential to dismantle the structural foundations of obstetric violence and to safeguard dignity, equity, and respect in every birth.