Mothers` parenting style in early infancy: the case of mothers who experienced physiological versus medicalised childbirth

The findings suggest that the childbirth experience is associated with variations in early maternal caregiving. Mothers who experienced physiological birth tended to report a less controlling parenting style, possibly due to enhanced maternal empowerment and hormonal processes that facilitate bonding and emotion regulation. Conversely, medicalised births may disrupt these processes, increasing anxiety and control-oriented parenting behaviours. Perinatal care should prioritise not only physical safety of the mother and baby but also their psychological and emotional well-being, offering supportive and respectful birthing options.