Ep. 307: Understanding Obstetric Violence in the US Maternity Care System and the Urgency to Implement Solutions with Dr. Lorraine Garcia and Dr. Brie Thumm

Dr. Lorraine and Dr. Brie join HeHe to discuss the critical and often overlooked topic of obstetrical violence. In this eye-opening episode, they break down what obstetrical violence is, its impact on women globally, including psychological trauma and avoidable morbidity, and how it violates human rights. The discussion highlights the importance of informed consent, respectful maternity care, and midwifery as potential solutions. The duo also emphasizes the need for systemic changes within the healthcare system to prevent obstetrical violence and improve maternal outcomes. Tune in to learn about practical steps women can take to avoid birth trauma and the crucial role of midwifery in transforming maternity care.

Understanding Obstetrical Violence

Examples and Impact of Obstetrical Violence

Legal Recourse and Advocacy

The Iceberg Analogy and Measurement Tools

Respectful Maternity Care and Systemic Issues

Transparency and Hospital Reporting

Midwifery Care and Trauma Prevention

Systemic Obstacles and Solutions

Navigating the Complexities of U.S. Healthcare

Challenges Faced by Healthcare Providers

The Impact of Insurance on Birth Choices

Midwifery Care and Its Benefits

Policy and Systemic Barriers

The Role of Consumer Advocacy

Future Directions and Solutions

Connecting and Collaborating for Change

Guest Bio:

Lorraine M. Garcia, PhD, WHNP-BC, CNM does research on the problem of obstetric violence in the US maternity care system and the public health and ethical duties to implement solutions. She also works as a Certified Nurse Midwife with experience in home birth, birth center, and hospital-based care. Lorraine is a reproductive justice advocate and frames most of her research with critical lenses from healthcare systems science, structural and organizational theories, and social justice in nursing. Her perspective on the systemic, normalized abuse and mistreatment of childbearing people is aligned with advocacy workers, interdisciplinary scientists, and all interested and affected parties working to end obstetric violence and achieve birth equity.

Dr. Brie Thumm is an Assistant Professor at the University of Colorado College of Nursing. She has been practicing midwifery domestically and internationally since 2001 when she completed her Masters in the Science of Nursing at Yale University. She obtained her MBA in Healthcare Administration at Baruch College in New York City and her PhD in health systems research at University of Colorado College of Nursing. Her area of research is perinatal workforce development to address disparities in maternal health outcomes and improve the well-being of health care professionals. Prior to her current position, Brie provided care at Planned Parenthood of New York City, served as the Assistant Director of the Sexual Assault Response Team for the Manhattan public hospitals, conducted mental and behavioral health research at the Rocky Mountain Regional Veteran’s Affairs Medical Center, and led the clinical and research arms of the Maternal Mortality Prevention Program at the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment. She continues to practice clinically at Denver Health.

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BIRTH EDUCATION:

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LINKS:

Lorraine’s website: https://www.makingbirthbettertogether.com/

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References:

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