Institutional violence reported by birth companions in public maternity hospitals

Abstract

Objective: To estimate the prevalence and the factors associated with institutional violence against women during hospitalization for delivery, as reported by companions. Method: Cross-sectional study conducted in three public maternity hospitals in the metropolitan region of Florianópolis, Santa Catarina, with 1,147 birth companions. Data were obtained through structured interviews conducted from March 2015 to May 2016. Data analysis was performed using single and multiple Poisson regression. Results: Institutional violence against women was more frequently reported by male companions, who were partners of the women and/or father of the baby (74.7%). At least one type of violence was mentioned (73.5%). Structural (59.2%) and physical (31.4%) violence were the most prevalent. The factors associated with the outcome were term vaginal deliveries, occurred between Tuesday and Friday, and higher level of education of the companion. Conclusion: The results of this study show that the presence of the companion does not prevent the occurrence of institutional violence. The prevalence of structural, physical, psychological and verbal violence against women during childbirth, as reported by the companion, points to the need for macrostructural changes to ensure care free of violence, with respect to women’s role and rights.