Short Review on Respectful Maternal Care (RMC)

Respectful Maternity Care (RMC) is a human rights-focused approach ensuring dignity, autonomy, privacy, and compassionate support for women during childbirth. Critical in reducing maternal and neonatal mortality, RMC emphasizes informed decision-making, cultural sensitivity, and protection against mistreatment. Despite its importance, many women experience disrespectful treatment, including abuse, neglect, and discrimination, especially in low-resource settings. Key principles of RMC—such as freedom from harm, maintaining dignity, and continuous support—promote trust and better health outcomes. Addressing factors like provider burnout, implicit bias, and inadequate empathy training, alongside organizational improvements, can foster a positive and respectful maternity care environment, benefiting both patients and providers.