Identification and Analysis of Key Components of Maternal Dignity: A Review Study
akhlāq-i pizishkī i.e., Medical Ethics,
Vol. 18 (1403),
29 Mordad 2024
,
Page 1-19
https://doi.org/10.22037/mej.v18i-.46116
Abstract
Background and Aim: In health systems, upholding the dignity and human rights of individuals particularly mothers is of critical importance. However, in many cases, the dignity and rights of mothers are neglected during caregiving processes. Such oversight can negatively affect maternal experiences throughout pregnancy, childbirth and neonatal care, ultimately impacting public health. This review study aims to identify and analyze the key components of maternal dignity.
Methods: This review study, based on Roberts’ six-stage model, examined articles published on maternal dignity from 2017 to 2024. The study population consisted of 174 articles extracted from reputable national databases (Magiran, SID, IranPaper, Megapaper) and international databases (PubMed, Web of Science, Google Scholar, Connect Paper). Based on predefined inclusion criteria and theoretical saturation, 15 articles were purposively selected for detailed analysis. Data collection and analysis were carried out in accordance with the PRISMA protocol.
Ethical Considerations: All ethical standards were upheld throughout the review process, including adherence to authenticity, honesty and academic integrity.
Results: The analysis identified six main dimensions and thirteen sub-dimensions as the key components of maternal dignity. The valuation dimension includes respect for the mother’s individuality, fostering a sense of safety and calm and personalized attention. The participation and autonomy dimension encompasses involvement in care planning, information sharing, empowerment in managing pregnancy, the right to choose, preserving independence in care decisions and respecting maternal preferences. The interaction and communication dimension involves effective communication, clarification of medical procedures, empathy and emotional and psychological support. The support for pregnant mothers dimension covers both physical and medical support aimed at promoting maternal well-being. The support for the fetus/newborn dimension encompasses safeguarding newborn health, nurturing the emotional bond between mother and child and creating a safe and supportive environment. The education and empowerment dimension involves educating mothers, equipping them to manage challenges and offering continuous support and education postpartum.
Conclusion: The findings highlight that respect for individuality and the creation of a secure and peaceful environment (the valuation dimension) are essential to maternal satisfaction and positive caregiving experiences. Active maternal participation in care planning and access to comprehensive information are equally important. Within the interaction and communication dimension, empathy, emotional support and procedural clarity significantly strengthen the relationship between mothers and healthcare providers. Physical and medical support, particularly during pregnancy, is crucial to both physical and mental health outcomes. Furthermore, supporting the fetus and newborn through ensuring neonatal health and creating a safe, supportive environment can enhance the overall maternal experience and contribute to favorable neonatal outcomes. Overall, these key components emphasize the necessity of integrating maternal dignity and rights into caregiving systems to improve the experience of pregnancy and childbirth, promote maternal and newborn health and ultimately enhance public health.
- Maternal Dignity
- Review Study
- Pregnancy
- Components of Maternal Dignity
How to Cite
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