Naming Obstetric Violence as a Social Problem

Abstract

Abstract Naming social problems is a critical step toward addressing them. Researchers have searched for a term that encompasses the violation of the rights of pregnant women by medical personnel. I argue that instead of more euphemistic terms such as “mistreatment,” “forced compliance,” or “disrespectful care,” we should name these violations more directly. The most popular emerging term is obstetric violence. In the tradition of C. Wright Mills, I argue that obstetric violence is a social problem, too widespread to be merely a personal trouble but rather an issue of public concern. I also address detractors that view using the term obstetric violence as damaging through examples of real women whose experiences cannot and should not be underplayed.