A Review of the Dimensions of Women's Dignity during Pregnancy and Childbirth
akhlāq-i pizishkī i.e., Medical Ethics,
Vol. 17 No. 48 (1402),
21 August 2023
,
Page 1-19
https://doi.org/10.22037/mej.v17i48.44603
Abstract
Background and Aim: Human dignity serves as the cornerstone of human rights and is fundamental in understanding patient rights. Given the delicate nature of pregnancy, preserving women's dignity during this period is crucial. This study aims to explore the various dimensions of women's dignity throughout pregnancy and childbirth.
Methods: This review-narrative study utilized a method of collecting information by searching for relevant books and articles published in the past two decades (2000-24) from reputable databases such as Magiran, SID, PubMed, Web of Science and Google Scholar.
Ethical Considerations: In this research, ethical aspects were observed in the literature review, including authenticity of texts, honesty and integrity.
Results: Based on the study's findings, the dignity of pregnant women should be addressed in three dimensions: 1- Clinical Environment, which encompasses ensuring the presence of specialized personnel in healthcare centers, pregnant women's comfort provision, comprehensive patient care, access to medications and facilities and an effective complaint handling system; 2- Service Providers, focusing on effective communication, avoiding verbal and physical violence, maintaining positive attitudes and appropriate behavior, safeguarding physical and psychological privacy, avoiding discrimination and labeling pregnant women and paying adequate attention to them; 3- Diagnostic and Treatment Processes, emphasizing the importance of providing information, involving pregnant women in decision-making, respecting their preferences and obtaining informed consent before interventions.
Conclusion: Creating a calm clinical environment, enhancing effective communication, respecting women's choices during diagnosis and treatment, accurate and transparent information dissemination and increasing awareness among pregnant women about treatment processes all contribute to improving maternal health. Human rights and human dignity must be upheld at all stages of healthcare. Continuous training for healthcare personnel, especially midwives as the first point of contact, plays a crucial role in raising awareness about the dimensions of human dignity, women's rights and commitment to improving care practices.
- Respect
- Patient Rights
- Women's Health
- Pregnancy
- Midwifery
How to Cite
References
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