Global Prevalence of Mistreatment and Disrespect During Childbirth: A Systematic Review

Strategic Insights -

A recent study by researchers at Lorestan University of Medical Sciences has shed light on the alarming issue of mistreatment and disrespect experienced by women during childbirth worldwide. The systematic review, which analyzed data from 117 studies involving over 209,000 participants across 37 countries, found that more than half (54.5%) of women globally experience mistreatment and disrespect during childbirth. This study highlights the urgent need for targeted interventions, policies, and programs to ensure respectful, safe, and equitable maternity care for all women.

Key Takeaways:

  • The global prevalence of mistreatment and disrespect during childbirth ranges from 1.9% to 100%, with a pooled estimate of 54.5%.
  • The highest prevalence was observed for 'not being allowed a birth companion' (51.5%) and 'poor rapport between women and providers' (48.1%), while the lowest prevalence was related to 'sexual abuse' (1.2%).
  • Risk of bias assessment was the only significant predictor, suggesting that methodological quality influenced the reported prevalence of mistreatment and disrespect.
  • The study included 117 studies providing 125 datasets and involving 209,175 participants across 37 countries.
  • The researchers found that the prevalence of mistreatment and disrespect varied significantly across different forms of mistreatment, with some forms being reported by more than 50% of women.

Statistics:

  • 54.5% of women globally experience mistreatment and disrespect during childbirth (95% CI: 49.1%-59.9%, I2 = 100%).
  • The highest prevalence was observed for 'not being allowed a birth companion' (51.5%; 95% CI: 3.7%-99.2%).
  • The lowest prevalence was related to 'sexual abuse' (1.2%; 95% CI: -0.14%-2.6%).
  • The study included 117 studies providing 125 datasets and involving 209,175 participants across 37 countries.

Sources:

  • "Prevalence of mistreatment and disrespect of women during childbirth in the world: a systematic review and meta-analysis." Reproductive Health, 2025,22(1):1-16.
  • Lorestan University of Medical Sciences Researchers Report Recent Findings in Reproductive Health (Prevalence of mistreatment and disrespect of women during childbirth in the world: a systematic review and meta-analysis). OBGYN & Reproduction Week. November 3, 2025; p 2315.