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Editorial
. 2021;29(1):119-131.
doi: 10.1007/s10691-021-09453-7. Epub 2021 Apr 8.

Vaginal Examinations During Childbirth: Consent, Coercion and COVID-19

Anna Nelson  1
Affiliations
Editorial

Vaginal Examinations During Childbirth: Consent, Coercion and COVID-19

Anna Nelson. Fem Leg Stud. 2021.

Abstract

In this paper I assess the labour ward admission policies introduced by some National Health Service (NHS) trusts during the COVID-19 pandemic, arguing that these intersected with other policies in a manner which may have coerced birthing people into consenting to vaginal examinations they might have otherwise refused. In order to fully understand the potential severity of these policies, I situate this critique in the historical and contemporary context of the problematic relationship between consent and vaginal examinations. Identifying the legal wrongs associated with performing coerced vaginal examinations, I highlight that the law is inadequately equipped to provide appropriate redress. Further, I illustrate that the issue explored in this paper reflects broader problems which exist with regard to the focus of, and the (under)investment in, the maternity services.

Keywords: Autonomy; COVID-19; Choice in childbirth; Consent; Pregnancy; Vaginal examinations.

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References

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