Midwives’ Voices on Obstetric Violence: Exploring Care Models and Professional Cultures in Tuscany

This chapter presents the results of an empirical study conducted in Tuscany based on qualitative interviews with midwives working in both hospital and private practice settings. The research aimed to explore the models of mother hood, care, and professional ethics that guide the work of midwives, focusing not only on childbirth but also on the antenatal and postpartum phases. Additionally, the study sought to assess midwives’ awareness of obstetric violence and its prevention. We argue that developing effective preventive measures requires a deep understanding of the professional culture, with midwives playing a central role in the development and implementation of these strategies. The interviews reveal a range of structural and communicative challenges that, if addressed, could significantly contribute to the prevention of obstetric violence.