Obstetric abuse also called obstetric violence or birth rape is physical, sexual, and/or verbal abuse; neglect, bullying, coercion, humiliation and/or assault that occurs to birthing women by medical staff, including doctors, nurses and midwives.

➜ Obstetric abuse can be: refusal to provide care unless consented to a vaginal exam or other ‘required’ procedures; not receiving informed consent or refusal; ignoring questions, requests and pleas; coerced into and/or procedures done without consent or medical reason like induction, vaginal exams, episiotomy or caesarean; use of physical force to prevent birth while waiting for the doctor to arrive; mocking, belittling and disregarding birth choices and plans; bullying and threats about baby’s safety.

➜ Obstetric abuse can lead to birth trauma, postpartum PTSD, postpartum depression, and anxiety.

➜ You can call out your provider’s behaviour and at any time say ‘I DO NOT CONSENT. I REFUSE further treatment’, ask for a new provider and/or file a complaint.