Obstetric Violence Major Barrier to Safe Childbirth in Malawi
YOWCO addresses the challenges through qualitative research documenting obstetric violence experiences and advocating for systematic reform to ensure dignified maternity care.
LILONGWE, Malawi — Mistreatment and violence against women during childbirth represents the most significant challenge to accessing safe reproductive health services in Malawi, according to a women's health advocacy group, writes Meclina Chirwa.
The Young Women's Consortium on Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights said obstetric violence contributes to Malawi's maternal mortality rate of 381 deaths per 100,000 live births despite high rates of skilled birth attendance.
"Obstetric violence is a key contributing factor to this persistence," said Zaithwa Milanzi, YOWCO legal consultant.
"The violence manifest in various forms including verbal abuse, physical mistreatment, neglect and denial of care, discrimination, forced procedures such as episiotomies."
Ninety-six percent of women in Malawi have skilled birth attendance and 97% deliver in health facilities, yet the high maternal mortality rate persists, pointing to poor quality care, Milanzi said.
She cited the 2019 "Woes of the Womb" report from the Office of the Ombudsman as documenting these practices.
Underlying drivers include overburdened health facilities, provider burnout and stress, power imbalances, and harmful cultural practices, according to Milanzi.
YOWCO addresses the challenges through qualitative research documenting obstetric violence experiences and advocating for systematic reform to ensure dignified maternity care.
The organization engages with human rights advocacy groups, community leaders, healthcare providers, government officials and the Malawi Law Commission to advocate for revision of the Termination of Pregnancy bill.
"YOWCO engages comprehensively with various local stakeholders to advance reproductive rights," Milanzi said, adding the group wants abortion decisions to rest with individuals seeking services.
She emphasized the need for more young women advocating for reproductive justice, increased community demand for reproductive health services and favorable media coverage on reproductive health issues.