Discussion on respect, rights and communication in the world of obstetrics with an international expert

International expert on informed consent and human rights in obstetrics, Hermine Hayes-Klein, J.D., brought her invaluable insights to the Masaryk University Faculty of Medicine. On 27 November 2023, her lecture, followed by a discussion and workshop, was organized by the Department of Health Sciences at the MU Faculty of Medicine in collaboration with the Association for Birth Centres and Homes (APODAC) and the Union of Midwives (UNIPA). In total, approximately 70 students and practitioners attended the event.

Opening words and a warm welcome to the participants were given by the Vice-Dean for Non-Medical Study Programmes, Professor Andrea Pokorná, and the guarantor of the study programme, Dr Radka Wilhelmová, a midwife. The main topic was "The role of informed consent and human rights in obstetrics". Other current topics that move the world of obstetrics were also mentioned, such as "respectful communication in the provision of care for women in a health care institution, changes in the human rights status of women and "their bodies" during institutional delivery, potential conflict between the rights of the person giving birth and the competence of health professionals in the provision of obstetric care, and strategies for sensitizing and educating the lay and professional public on the topic of so-called obstetric violence".

This event not only provided a space for professional growth, but also highlighted the important theme of respect, human rights and communication in the world of midwifery. In conclusion, the meeting with Hermine Hayes-Klein at LF MU was an enriching experience for all participants, who can now approach the issue of obstetrics and the care of women at these crucial moments in their lives with new perspectives and knowledge.