<span lang="EN">Barriers and Facilitators of Respectful Maternal Care during Childbirth in Iran: A Scoping Review

Background & aim: Despite efforts to improve respectful maternal care during childbirth in Iran, its advancement remained limited. This study aimed to synthesize barriers and facilitators of respectful maternal care within the Iranian context.Methods: This review was conducted following Arksey and O’Malley’s framework and JBI guidelines. Two independent researchers searched English databases ofCINAHL, EMBASE, MEDLINE, PsycINFO, ProQuest, Scopus, as well as Persian databases of Irandoc, SID, ISC, and Medlib—using keywords related to respectful maternity care, childbirth, mistreatment, dignity, autonomy, and Iran. Original qualitative and quantitative studies conducted in Iran and published between ۲۰۱۰ and ۲۰۲۴ were included. Quantitative data were extracted and integrated with qualitative findings through narrative synthesis, while qualitative data underwent content and thematic analysis.Results: Of ۸۳۳ records identified, ۲۴ studies met the inclusion criteria. Most commonly reported disrespectful behaviors were verbal and physical abuse and violations of maternal privacy. Findings were grouped into four main themes: instances of disrespectful care (e.g., neglect, verbal abuse), barriers (e.g., staff shortages, inadequate infrastructure), facilitators (e.g., staff training, family support), and proposed interventions (e.g., educational programs, policy reforms). From healthcare providers’ perspectives, barriers included individual and organizational factors, whereas recipients highlighted individual, health-related, and social issues. Facilitators included interpersonal communication, providers’ characteristics, involvement of recipients and companions, and governance. Interventions were classified as management-oriented and educational strategies.Conclusion: This review highlights major disrespectful behaviors and key barriers and facilitators influencing respectful maternal care in Iran. Addressing staff shortages and improving healthcare settings are essential for sustainable quality improvements.

کلیدواژه ها:

Abuse ، Dignity ، Respect ، Maternal care ، Childbirth ، Scoping Review