Perception of obstetric violence and risk of post-traumatic stress disorder at 6 months postpartum: an observational study.

Introduction: Childbirth, traditionally viewed as a natural and positive process, can become a traumatic experience when obstetric violence or disrespectful treatment occurs. This type of experience can cause symptoms consistent with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder negatively affecting maternal mental health, bonding with the newborn, and the development of the newborn. Objectives: To analyze the relationship between perceptions of inadequate treatment during childbirth and the risk of postpartum Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder at 6 months in a sample of women assessed 3 months after birth. Methods: An observational study with six-month follow-up was conducted in 341 women in Spain, initially recruited 3 months postpartum. Validated questionnaires were used: Childbirth Abuse and Respect Evaluation-Maternal Questionnaire (perceived abuse or disrespect), Perinatal Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Family Apgar, and MOS social support survey Bivariate and multivariate analyses were performed using logistic regression. Results: Three hundred forty-one women participated, with a mean age of 33.38 years (SD = 4.23). 10.9% of the participants were at risk of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. Childbirth Abuse and Respect Evaluation-Maternal Questionnaire dimensions correlated positively with the Perinatal Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, with "inappropriate treatment by professionals" being the most significant ( Discussion and conclusion: A higher perception of obstetric violence is associated with an increased risk of developing postpartum Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. Furthermore, invasive interventions such as instrumental births or previous cesarean sections increase psychological vulnerability. In contrast, social support acts as a protective factor. It is recommended to implement screening tools such as Abuse and Respect Evaluation-Maternal Questionnaire, reinforce training in respectful treatment, and promote humane care models to ensure the physical and emotional safety of women.