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