Obstetric Violence: What Do Midwifery Students Know?

Abstract

The aim of this study is to determine the diagnosis levels and experiences of obstetric violence, which negatively affects women, of midwife candidates. The sample of the descriptive study consisted of 203 students studying in the Midwifery department of a public university who volunteered to participate in the research (Participation rate: 56%). Data were collected with the "Personal Information Form", "Obstetric Violence Diagnosis Form". Descriptive statistics were used to evaluate the data. The mean age of the students who contributed to the research was determined as 21.20±2.18. While it was determined that 59.1% of the students participating in the study had knowledge about obstetric violence, it was determined that the most common source of information was the internet (27.6%) and the immediate environment (13.8%), respectively. It was determined that 33.5% of the students witnessed obstetric violence. In addition, 23.2% of the students stated that obstetric violence is common in health institutions. In the light of the study findings, it was determined that the knowledge level of midwifery students about diagnosing obstetric violence should be improved. Therefore, raising awareness through improved educational models, standardizing care through the implementation of clinical practice guidelines, establishing protocols for respectful care, establishing the preventive legal basis, and promoting the humanization of childbirth will be key to eradicating obstetric violence.