A Simultaneous Concept Analysis to Provide Clarity Between Obstetric Violence and Birth Trauma

In perinatal care, obstetric violence and birth trauma are two distinct yet often conflated concepts. This confusion can obscure the specific harms of obstetric violence, as its impact is frequently subsumed under the broader idea of birth trauma, leading to underreporting of obstetric violence. Simultaneous concept analysis is used to clarify two related concepts by comparing their unique elements and identifying overlaps.

To compare the antecedents, attributes, and consequences of both the concepts and to identify their intersections.

A comprehensive search across PubMed, Google Scholar, CINAHL, and ProQuest yielded 98 articles on obstetric violence and 62 on birth trauma. Thematic analysis of antecedents, attributes, and outcomes informed a comparative validity matrix.

Obstetric violence and birth trauma have different causes and characteristics but lead to similar outcomes. Birth trauma arises from experiences like fear or unmet expectations, while obstetric violence involves abuse by providers and systemic failures. Both result in emotional distress, anxiety, and fear of future childbirth.

Existing literature uses the term "birth trauma" as a euphemism for what is essentially obstetric violence. Considering the conceptual confusion between the subjective trauma arising from childbirth experiences and the trauma specifically resulting from abuse by healthcare providers, we are suggesting a new term, "Obstetric Trauma" This would specifically indicate the structural and institutional consequences of obstetric violence on women. It would also help guide targeted interventions, policy changes, and support systems aimed at preventing obstetric violence and promoting respectful maternity care.