THE BLACK WOMAN'S BODY AND OBSTRICAL VIOLENCE: INTEGRATIVE REVIEW

Abstract

ABSTRACT: Objective: To analyze the prevalence of obstetric violence among Black women and how it differs from the violence experienced by women of other races/ethnicities. The study also aims to explore the implications of this violence on the physical, psychological, and mental health of Black women, considering factors such as racism and gender inequalities in healthcare. Method: An integrative review was conducted using the PRISMA-ScR guidelines for the reporting and structuring of results. Searches were performed in academic databases such as PubMed, Scielo, and BVS, focusing on scientific articles relevant to the topic. Studies addressing obstetric violence, racism, and their impacts on the health of Black women during prenatal care, childbirth, and postpartum were included. Results: The research identified that Black women experience multiple forms of obstetric violence, intensified by racism and gender inequalities. They reported barriers to accessing quality care, procedures performed without consent, and a lack of support during the pregnancy and postpartum cycle (prenatal care, childbirth, and postpartum). Institutional racism significantly contributed to worsening the physical and psychological impacts on these women. Conclusion: It is concluded that racism and sexism directly influence the health of Black women, exacerbating the obstetric violence experienced by this group. The consequences of this violence are profound, negatively affecting both the physical and mental health of Black women, while also reinforcing inequalities in care during the reproductive period.