WHO-Led Study Shows Significant Mistreatment Of Women During Childbirth In 4 Countries In Africa, Asia

Associated Press: Report reveals widespread abuse of women during childbirth
“A new report says more than one-third of women in four low-income countries in Africa and Asia were slapped, mocked, forcibly treated, or otherwise abused during childbirth in health centers and suggests that such mistreatment occurs worldwide. The study published Wednesday in The Lancet medical journal says women in Nigeria, Myanmar, Ghana, and Guinea also experienced high rates of cesarean sections and surgical cuts to the vagina, or episiotomies, without their consent — and often without a painkiller…” (10/9).

U.N. News: Alarming number of women mistreated during childbirth, new U.N. health agency figures show
“…According to WHO, quality support, particularly from midwives for women in labor, can make the difference between life and death. Midwifery has been shown to reduce maternal and newborn mortality and stillbirth rates, by over 80 percent, and reduces pre-term labor and birth by 24 percent. Yet, more than 800 women still die every day during the process. … The health agency recommends a framework of strategies to ensure women are treated with compassion and dignity — from holding health systems accountable, to ensuring enough resources are available for quality health care, and clear policies on women’s rights…” (10/8).

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