Free from Harm: Eliminating obstetric violence.

Free From Harm raises awareness of the need to eliminate violence and minimise trauma in the perinatal period, by highlighting the structural inequalities that enable these harms to occur. It also helps midwives to recognise when their own human rights are not being upheld and understand how this impacts them and the care they are able to give.  

A quarter of those giving birth each year in the UK describe their experience as traumatic, with 1 in 25 developing PTSD as a result. The disparities are profound and alarming – Black women face a risk of mortality three times higher than their white counterparts during the childbearing year, and Black babies have a markedly higher risk of stillbirth and neonatal death. Suicide is the leading cause of death of women in the first 12 months post partum.

The toll is not only on birthing people.  MIdwives, maternity care providers, and birth workers are at a breaking point, grappling with extreme levels of stress, vicarious trauma, and burnout, a crisis that has only deepened post-pandemic. Almost 500 midwives have stepped away from their calling in just one year, a testament to the dire need for change.

We must shift our focus. Prioritising mere survival leads to harm. Recognising that trauma can arise from what may seem routine but is perceived differently by individuals is key. Every interaction needs to be imbued with sensitivity, respect, and compassion.

It’s time we stand together to eradicate obstetric violence and foster a culture of care that is truly safe, compassionate, and empowering for all.