The characteristics of compassionate maternity care

A better understanding of compassion can improve the quality of maternity care women receive.

 

Compassion is making meaningful connections with women

  • Using good interpersonal skills – combined verbal and non-verbal communication and active listening
  • Providing dignity and respect
  • Establishing trust – through establishing a partnership, being nonjudgmental and creating a strong sense of safety

Compassion is treating each woman as an individual

  • Showing understanding
  • Prioritising maternal choice

Compassion is shown through action

  • Providing emotional support
  • Assistance through active and helpful care
  • Continuous informational support

Reference: https://bmcpregnancychildbirth.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12884-020-03001-y