“Invisible wounds of childbirth”; women’s experiences of obstetric violence: a phenomenological qualitative study

The study revealed that women in Turkey are exposed to obstetric violence during the the labor process and that this experience can be addressed in various dimensions. Having experienced obstetric violence, the women reported postpartum emotional reactions such as trauma, fear, anger and frustration. However, despite these negative experiences, some women expressed the joy of motherhood and the happiness and gratitude of being reunited with their baby. Better quality assurance is needed to protect the rights of women in labor and ensure a positive birth experience.