# FIGO statement on respectful care: Addressing disrespectful maternity care

## TL;DR

This paper outlines recommendations to improve respectful maternity care and reduce abuse to improve maternal and neonatal health outcomes.

## Contribution

The paper introduces policy interventions and clinical strategies to implement respectful maternity care in health systems.

## Key findings

- Disrespectful maternity care negatively impacts maternal and neonatal health outcomes.
- Evidence-based interventions can safeguard women from substandard treatment during pregnancy and childbirth.
- Adopting respectful care can lead to improved global maternal and perinatal outcomes.

## Abstract

The International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) Committee on Health Systems Strengthening and Respectful Care recognizes the detrimental effects of disrespectful and abusive practices within maternity care on maternal and neonatal health outcomes. In response, the committee advocates for the implementation of strategic, evidence‐based interventions aimed at safeguarding women from substandard and disrespectful treatment during pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period. This statement presents FIGO's recommendations for adopting respectful maternity care into health systems. The proposed policy interventions and clinical strategies are designed to foster compassionate, person‐centered, and culturally competent care, thereby contributing to improved maternal and perinatal outcomes globally.