OBSTETRIC VIOLENCE IN AN INTERSECTIONAL ANALYSIS BASED ON THE EXPERIENCES OF BLACK WOMEN DURING PRENATAL CARE.

Abstract

Introduction: The experience of the pregnancy-puerperal period among Black women is shaped by structural inequalities that favor obstetric violence and limit access to dignified, humanized, and informed care. Objective: To analyze the guidance provided during prenatal consultations and its relationship with Black women's knowledge of obstetric violence and their rights, to prevent possible situations of violence. Methodology: This is a descriptive, exploratory study with a mixed-methods approach (QUAN+QUAL), conducted with 25 Black women who were in the pregnancy-puerperal period or had experienced pregnancy within the last five years. Data was collected through a structured questionnaire administered in person at the Eraldo Sardinha Family Clinic and made available through Google Forms. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and qualitative analysis, in accordance with ethical principles and after obtaining informed consent. Results and Discussion: Although 20 participants reported being familiar with the concept of obstetric violence, only 10 stated that they had received guidance on the subject, and only 2 received such information during prenatal care. It was observed that 15 women would not know how to act in a situation involving obstetric violence, and 13 were unaware of their rights during the pregnancy-puerperal period. Regarding obstetric racism, 15 participants were unfamiliar with the term and, after receiving an explanation, some recognized experiences consistent with this form of violence. The reports revealed situations of negligence, abandonment, institutional violence, lack of humanized care, and emotional distress. Conclusion: It is concluded that the guidance provided during prenatal care was insufficient to ensure Black women's knowledge of obstetric violence, obstetric racism, and their rights. The findings reinforce the need to strengthen educational actions, humanized care practices, and strategies to address institutional racism in obstetric care.