Whether cesarean or vaginal, childbirth experiences greatly affected by 'dehumanizing' treatment, study finds

The research is published in the journal SSM—Qualitative Research in Health.

The researchers say their findings underscore the need for better training for medical professionals as well as structural support within the health care system.

The study was based on in-depth interviews with 25 mothers who had previously given birth via cesarean section and then tried for a "vaginal birth after cesarean," commonly referred to as VBAC, for a subsequent birth. In the U.S., 1 in 3 births occurs via cesarean.