The Experience of Pregnancy and Childbirth Overshadowed by Obstetric Violence and Structural Barriers of the Israeli Health System from the Perspective of Arab and Jewish Women

What is it about?

This study amplifies the voices of Arab and Jewish women in Israel who have experienced obstetric violence during fertility treatments, pregnancy, and childbirth. It explores their personal stories, highlighting the barriers within the Israeli healthcare system and offers their recommendations for change. Focusing on the unique gender, social, and cultural dynamics of pregnancy and childbirth in Israel, the research adopts a feminist approach aimed at promoting human rights and dismantling patriarchal structures. Through 20 in-depth interviews—10 with Arab women and 10 with Jewish women—five key themes emerged: The emotional and physical challenges women face from caregivers and their surroundings during pregnancy. Women's struggles with navigating health services while being attuned to their own needs. Experiences of childbirth, often marked by unmet expectations and unresponsive medical staff. A detailed account of the various forms of obstetric violence. Women’s insights and recommendations to eliminate obstetric violence. This study sheds light on a critical issue and calls for systemic change.

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Why is it important?

This research is unique because it centers on the often-overlooked experiences of both Arab and Jewish women in Israel, providing a rare comparative perspective on obstetric violence across different ethnic and cultural backgrounds. By using a feminist lens, it goes beyond merely documenting cases, seeking to understand the broader gendered, social, and systemic factors that contribute to such violence. The study's qualitative-constructivist methodology allows for deep, personal insights, capturing the voices of women who often remain unheard in discussions about healthcare and reproductive rights. Additionally, the focus on both fertility treatments and childbirth offers a comprehensive view of the challenges women face throughout their reproductive journeys. Its unique contribution lies in its actionable recommendations directly from the women themselves, aiming not just to raise awareness, but to spark meaningful reforms within the healthcare system to better support women’s rights and dignity.